Abia Celebrates Igbo Heritage as Govt Champions Mother Language Education Among Youths

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving indigenous languages and strengthening cultural identity among young people as part of activities marking the International Mother Language Day.

The celebration, organized by the Abia State Ministry of Arts Culture and Creative Economy, featured an engaging Igbo language competition involving secondary schools across the state, drawing students, educators, government officials, and cultural stakeholders.

Declaring the event open at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, stressed that language remains a powerful tool for cultural preservation, identity formation, and intellectual development.

[caption id="attachment_199320" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe,[/caption]

According to Chief Ekwuribe, the state government is determined to ensure that indigenous languages, particularly Igbo, remain vibrant and relevant among younger generations.

He explained that the programme was carefully designed to encourage students to embrace their linguistic heritage while developing the confidence to communicate effectively in their mother tongue.

"The objective of this year's programme is to encourage young people to reconnect with their linguistic heritage while building confidence in communicating in their mother language,ÔÇØ he said.

The commissioner added that competitions and interactive sessions were introduced to make the celebration both educational and engaging while creating a platform for discussions on sustainable multilingual education.

Delivering a presentation on the theme "Youth Voices on Multilingual Education,ÔÇØ the Director of Curriculum at the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Nnenna Anyanwu, described language as the soul of a people.

She emphasized that indigenous languages serve as vital instruments for transmitting culture, values, and historical identity from one generation to another.

According to her, it is essential to actively involve young people in conversations about protecting and sustaining native languages in a rapidly globalizing world.

Several government officials and stakeholders commended the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy for organizing activities that go beyond symbolic celebrations.

Among those who delivered goodwill messages were the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Uchechukwu Kalu, as well as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism and Entertainment, Justice Martins.

Also lending her voice was Professor Onukawa of the Department of Linguistics/Igbo at Abia State University, who praised the initiative for promoting linguistic awareness among students.

One of the highlights of the event was the Igbo Spelling Bee and essay competition involving secondary school students from across Abia State.

Participants showcased their knowledge and fluency in the Igbo language while competing for recognition and prizes.

The programme also featured cultural presentations, intellectual exchanges, and the presentation of cash and gift items to the winners, making the celebration both educational and entertaining.

In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mrs. Chibuzo Ehiemere, expressed appreciation to Alex Chioma Otti for his continuous support toward cultural preservation and educational development in the state.

She noted that initiatives like the programme would help nurture fluency in indigenous languages, inspire creativity among students, and strengthen the foundation of mother-tongue education in Abia State.

The event also attracted several dignitaries including the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youths, Onyebuchi Chukwu, top government officials, educators, and cultural advocates.

Observers say the initiative reflects Abia State's broader commitment to promoting cultural heritage while empowering the younger generation to take pride in their linguistic identity.

[caption id="attachment_199319" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism and Entertainment, Justice Martins[/caption]

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