BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
THE inaugural edition of the World Igbo Cultural, Language, Tourism, History, and Heritage Summit, set to bring together the “Who’s Who” of Igbo-speaking areas from both home and abroad will take place in Asaba, the Delta State Capital, November 2024.
The President General of the Apex Association of Anioma Indigenes Inc. and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Apostle Patrick Nwanze, announced the event during a recent meeting with traditional rulers and Anioma stakeholders, said that the summit aims to rally the global Igbo community, celebrating their rich cultural heritage and fostering unity.
Organized by AkuruUlo Media and the World Igbo Business Council, the summit aims to celebrate and preserve Igbo heritage, it will feature a variety of activities including speeches, goodwill messages, the presentation of the Igbo national anthem, book launches, and traditional Igbo cultural dances.
Members of the LOC present at the meeting included Prof. Julie Umukoro, Prof. Adaobi Ugbomeh (LOC Secretary), Ogbuefi Chris Enenya, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Anazia, and Prof. Esther Oweleke.
Director General and Coordinator, Hon. Dr. Kenneth Gbandi, alongside Amb. Phil Robert, Dr. Moses Ifeanyichukwu, and Dr. Mabel Adinkwu, leaders of various LOC committees, also confirmed their readiness to ensure that the summit is a success. The formal inauguration of the LOC is scheduled to take place on 29 July, 2024.
Apostle Patrick Nwanze emphasized that hosting the summit in Asaba demonstrates Anioma’s preparedness for state creation and signifies solidarity with their Igbo counterparts across the River Niger. He highlighted that the summit, which will span three days, is expected to attract Ndigbo from around the globe. The event will feature cultural artifact exhibitions, wrestling competitions, traditional dressing contests, various masquerades, and a parade showcasing glamorous traditional attire.
By hosting this prestigious event, Asaba not only showcases its cultural significance but also its readiness to play a pivotal role in the broader Igbo cultural landscape.
