LAGOS GROUP LAUNCHES BOOK TO PROMOTE IGBO LANGUAGE
Language has been described as the strongest medium of transmitting culture and social reality
because it influences thought and conduct.
Speaking last Sunday at the public presentation of a
book for basic Igbo learners, Chief (Sir)Duke Iyke Ezeh, President of Ọgbakọ Asụsụ Igbọ
Lagos, said that “language allows us to share our ideas, thoughts and feelings with others. It also
has the power to build and tear down societies”.
He said that Ọgbàkọ Asụsụ Igbọ Lagos, a non-profit organization was formed to promote and
preserve the Igbo language following the prediction of the United Nation’s Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that the Igbo language faces the risk of a
possible extinction by 2050.“
It is against this background that we formed the body to avoid
language death.
“We encourage parents to speak Igbo to their children at home and get private
Igbo language teachers for their children. We also organize a fiveweek summer holiday Igbo
language classes for our children in some designated centres in Lagos every year”, Chief Ezeh
said.
He further disclosed that in 2024 the association plans to increase the number of the centres
for Igbo language study in Lagos.
Unveiling the 135-page book, Chief Uche Obi, SAN, (Omenuko), a notable corporate lawyer
commended the association for the thoughtfulness and diligence in producing a book to help
children learn how to write and speak Igbo language. Production of such abook, he said, was
crucial in the revitalization of the Igbo language.
He called on wellmeaning individuals and
organizations to support the efforts of Ọgbakọ Asụsụ Igbọ Lagos in promoting and preserving
the language.
Titled ‘Kà Ànyi Mu Asusu Igbọ’ (Let us Learn Igbo Language), the book was commissioned and
sponsored by Ọgbakọ Asụsụ Igbọ Lagos. Written by Prof. Chigozie Nnabuihe of University of
Lagos, the book covers basic numerals, names of objects and animals, proverbs, culture and
more. Both Igbo and non-Igbo can read the book because it has English subtitles. According to
Chief Ezeh, there are plans to sell the book on Amazon and other online platforms.
The occasion featured an Igbo news presentation and reading by the children, and cultural dances by
the Igbo Medical students of the University of Lagos.
Chief Anayo Nwosu (Ikenga) gave an
insightful and revealing talk on the concept of ‘Ezi na Ulo’ in Igbo cosmology. Prominent
corporate individuals, notable business men,and culture enthusiasts attended the event. Dignitaries like Dr. Tony Onyima (Ife Idemili), Chief Jude Obiakor (Owelle), Chief Uzo Ikonkwo
(Ugonwanne), Chief Ifeanyi Ezehokolie, Chief Kelechi Nwuba, Chief (Engr) Jude Amadi, Chief
Emmanuel Ezeh, Chief Michael Onuoha, Mazi Charles Obiora, Chief Emeka Okoye (Ezenwa), and Chief Okey Nwosu (Okenwa).
Other prominent personalities who attended are Chief
Chinedu Okorie (Isimiri), Chief Tony Okoye (Chikwado), Chief Ifeanyi Ogbunude (Nnabuenyi),
Chief Law Offodile (Udunabo), Dr. Patrick Uwakwe (Ugwumba), Chief Sebastian Okonkwo
(NwaEzehfunamba), Chief Obinna Nwosu (Ochendo), and Chief Joe Ikeji (Akunwafor), Chief
Joseph Agbasi (Nwachinemelu), Barr. ChinwEzehUkwuoma, Engr. Remi Oguamanam, and host
of others.
