By Chuks Nwoko
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2024 World Igbo Culture, Language, Heritage, and Tourism Summit has just inaugurated their new executives who are dedicated to making the event a huge success. they made this commitment during their Inauguration ceremony at the Topview Hotel in Asaba,
Speaking at the event, Sir Mike Okiro the Chairman of the event, stated that the summit, scheduled for November, aims to unite Igbo-speaking people worldwide to foster a shared cultural identity and collective consciousness. He described the summit as a cultural heritage event with the potential to significantly impact society by reinforcing the human community and expressing existential living.
Sir Okiro advised the executives to integrate contemporary societal changes and technological advancements into their cultural heritage efforts. This integration, he emphasized, would promote greater unity, mutual understanding, and respect within the Igbo community.
Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Igboanusi, a former Chief of Staff of the Imo State Governor, who represented Mrs. Chika Ibeneme, praised the Igbo Unity Initiative and commended Delta State for hosting this unifying program. Drawing from her extensive travel experiences, Mrs. Ibeneme highlighted the exceptional qualities of the Igbo people in business, intelligence, resilience, and dedication to development.
A Don at the University of Port Harcourt and newly elected LOC Secretary, Prof. Adaobi Ugbomeh, expressed her gratitude in being selected for the role. She emphasized that the summit’s ultimate goal will be to showcase the unity of the Igbo language and culture despite and its diverse dialects.
Prof. Ugbomeh likened the Igbo people’s diversity to different dialects, stressing the importance of recognizing and celebrating their unity. She hoped the summit would dispel misconceptions and ignorance that have led some to question Igbo unity.
In his acceptance speech, LOC Chairman Apst. Patrick Nwanze acknowledged the historic nature of the World Igbo Summit, the first of its kind. He noted that gathering the diverse cultures and languages of Igbo-speaking people would significantly enhance national cohesion and integration, which are core Igbo values.
Apst. Nwanze emphasized that the summit would not only celebrate Igbo cultural heritage but also promote national unity and understanding among different ethnic groups in Nigeria.
In readiness of the upcoming summit the chairman of the eloc Apostle Patrick (Agu Anioma) ensured that the Inauguration carried a true cultural ambiance by showcasing a cultural dance group from Anioma, the hall decorated with traditional materials and had the Obuzor of Ibuzor, HRM, (Prof) Louis C. Nwoboshi was the father of the day, accompanied by Onowu Louise Nwanze the Diokpa of Umuojeayale of Umuegea. The mother of the day was Chief Mrs Chika Ibeneme.
The CEI of AkuruUlo High Chief Chuks Ibegbu was there with othor traditional heads.
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Apst. Nwanze outlined the committee’s focus on promoting Igbo culture, language, heritage, and tourism, aiming to attract global attention and participation. He revealed that the summit would showcase over one thousand Igbo cultures in various units, underscoring its scale and significance. The summit will feature cultural displays, traditional music and dance performances, exhibitions, and workshops, providing a comprehensive experience of Igbo heritage.
He expressed deep gratitude and pledged dedication to preserving the rich traditions and values of the Igbo nation. Nwanze highlighted the summit’s importance for cultural preservation and community engagement, reaffirming the LOC’s commitment to making the event a landmark success. He called on all Igbo people, both at home and in the diaspora, to participate and support the summit, emphasizing that their involvement is crucial for its success.
The 2024 World Igbo Culture, Language, Heritage, and Tourism Summit is set to be a pivotal event for the Igbo community, fostering unity, celebrating diversity, and promoting cultural heritage on a global stage.
The summit aims to create a platform for dialogue and collaboration among Igbo people worldwide, encouraging them to work together towards common goals. By showcasing the richness and diversity of Igbo culture, the summit hopes to instill a sense of pride and identity in the younger generation and ensure that the Igbo heritage is preserved for future generations.
In addition to cultural activities, the summit will address various issues affecting the Igbo community, including economic development, education, and social cohesion. Workshops and panel discussions will provide opportunities for participants to share ideas and solutions, fostering a collaborative approach to community development.
The summit will also highlight the achievements of notable Igbo individuals and organizations, celebrating their contributions to society and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
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The LOC is working tirelessly to ensure that the summit is well-organized and impactful, with plans to involve various stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the LOC aims to create a comprehensive and inclusive event that truly represents the Igbo community.
Overall, the 2024 World Igbo Culture, Language, Heritage, and Tourism Summit promises to be a significant milestone in the history of the Igbo people, fostering a deeper understanding of their culture and strengthening the bonds of unity among them.
Through this event, the Igbo community hopes to showcase their rich heritage to the world, promote mutual respect and understanding, and contribute to the cultural diversity of the global community.
