Language has been described as the strongest medium of transmitting culture and social reality because it influences thought and conduct.
Chief Uche Obi (2nd left), chairman; Dr. Tony Onyima (right) and others during the unveiling of the book for basic Igbo learners in Lagos.
Speaking at the public presentation of a book for basic Igbo learners, Sir Duke Iyke Ezeh, president of Ogbako Asusu Igbo Lagos, said language allows people to share ideas, thoughts, and feelings with others and also has the power to build and tear down societies.
He said Ogbàko Asusu Igbo Lagos, a non-profit organisation was formed to promote and preserve the Igbo language following the prediction of the United Nations’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 organise a five-week summer holiday Igbo language classes for our children in some designated centres in Lagos every year.”
Ezeh disclosed that in 2024, the association plans to increase the number of centres for Igbo language study in Lagos.
Unveiling the 135-page book, Chief Uche Obi, SAN, (Omenuko), notable corporate lawyer commended the association for the thoughtfulness and diligence in producing a book to help children learn how to write and speak the Igbo language. He said production of such a book was crucial in the revitalisation of the Igbo language and called on well-meaning individuals and organisations to support the efforts of Ogbako Asusu Igbo Lagos in promoting and preserving the language.
Titled ‘Kà Ànyi Mu Igbo (Let’s Learn Igbo Language), the book was commissioned and sponsored by Ogbako Asusu Igbo Lagos.
Written by Prof. Chigozie Nnawuihe of the University of Lagos, it covers basic numerals, names of objects and animals, proverbs, culture and mores. Both Igbo and non-Igbo can read the book because it has English subtitles. According to Ezeh, there are plans to sell the book on Amazon and other online platforms.
The occasion featured an Igbo news presentation, readings 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 businessmen, and culture enthusiasts attended the event. They included Dr. Tony Onyima (Ife Idemili), Chief Jude Obiakor (Owelle), Chief Uzo Ikonkwo (Ugonwanne), Chief Ifeanyi Ezeokolie, Chief Kelechi Nwuba, Chief (Engr) Jude Amadi, Chief Emmanuel Eze, 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 (Nwaezefunamba), Chief Obinna Nwosu (Ochendo), and Chief Joe Ikeji (Akunwafor), Chief Joseph Agbasi (Nwachinemelu), Chinweze Ukwuoma, Remi Oguamanam, and others.