New Executives Pledge Commitment To Successful 2024 World Igbo Summit

BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU/CHINELO ODUJE

THE newly inaugurated executives of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming 2024 World Igbo Culture, Language, Heritage, and Tourism Summit have vowed to ensure that the event becomes a resounding success. The committee members gave this pledge after taking their oath of office at the ceremony held at Topview Hotel, Asaba.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Sir Mike Okiro, stated that the aim of the summit which is scheduled for November, is to bring together the Igbo-speaking people from across the world to contribute to the formation of a shared cultural identity and collective consciousness within the society.

Sir Okiro described the summit as a cultural heritage event that would have a profound impact on every society, noting that it will serve as a primary construction of the human community and an expression of existential living.

He advised the Executives that present-day societal changes and technological advancements should be integrated into cultural heritage to promote greater unity, mutual understanding, and respect among the community.

Giving her remarks, the Mother of the Day, Mrs Chika Ibeneme, represented by a one-time Chief of Staff of the Imo State Governor, Hon. Mrs Ijeoma Igboanusi, commended the Igbo Unity Initiative and congratulated the people of Delta State for hosting the program aimed at uniting all Igbo cultures. Mrs. Ibeneme shared her extensive travel experiences and praised the exceptional qualities of the Igbo people in business, intelligence, strength, and dedication to development.

In her remarks, A Don at the University of Port Harcourt, and also the newly elected Secretary of the LOC, Prof. Adaobi Ugbomeh, applauded the organizers for finding her worthy to serve in the position bestowed on her, she expressed her honour and privilege to be part of the executive stating that the ultimate goal is to showcase the unity of the Igbo language and culture despite its diverse dialects.

Prof. Ugbomeh acknowledged that while dialects may vary, the Igbo people are one, likening their diversity to different dialects. She also hoped that the summit would foster a deeper understanding and recognition of Igbo unity, emphasizing that knowledge is power and sought to dispel misconceptions and ignorance that have led some to argue against Igbo unity. She said.

In his acceptance speech, the LOC Chairman Apst. Patrick Nwanze acknowledged that the World Igbo Summit would be the first of its kind. He noted that the gathering of diverse cultures and languages of Igbo-speaking people would play a significant role in enhancing national cohesion and integration, which are highly emphasized in Igbo values.

Apst. Nwanze added that the committee’s focus would be on promoting Igbo culture, language, heritage, and tourism, aiming to attract global attention and participation. However, he reiterated that the summit will showcase over one thousand cultures of Igbo’s in different units.

He expressed utmost gratitude as he pledged dedication to upholding the rich traditions and values of the Igbo people while highlighting the significance of this summit for cultural preservation and community engagement.