..says center will preserve, promote Igbo culture, heritage

By Chinedu Adonu

The University of Nigeria Nsukka UNN, has commended Igbo diaspora groups pioneered by the Council of lgbo States in Americas, CISA and Igbo World Assembly, IWA, for their support and exceptional contributions towards the establishment of lgbo Cultural Village Complex, ICVC, in the university.

The ICVC was initiated under the leadership of the CIS director, Prof Chris Uchenna Agbedo.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Charles Igwe disclosed who made this known in an appreciation letter to the group disclost that the center would play a pivotal roles in preservation and promotion of Igbo culture and heritage.

Prof. Igwe also paid glowing tributes to the chairman, board of presidents of CISA and WIA, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze for his distinguished leadership and guidance, under which the diaspora groups had demonstrated unwavering commitment to establish the center for Igbo cultural village complex.

The letter reads, “Your tireless efforts in advancing the noble objectives of the Centre for lgbo Studies (CIS) have been instrumental in propelling this transformative initiative forward. 

“The generous financial contributions and immeasurable moral support from the Ndigbo Diaspora Group have played a pivotal role in the realization of the lgbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC). Your dedication to the advancement of lgbo studies and culture serves as a shining example of collaboration and partnership between the university and the diaspora community”. 

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The elated VC particularly disclosed that he drew inspiration from the spirit of unity and solidarity demonstrated by the Ndigbo Diaspora Group, as all stakeholders joined hands to work towards the completion of the multi-billion-naira legacy project.

“Your commitment to excellence and innovation has set a standard of excellence for collaborative endeavours in the preservation and celebration of lgbo heritage.

“The University of Nigeria recognizes the mutual benefits of collaboration (Public-Private-Partnership) in the establishment and management of the innovative ICVC project, and looks forward to an M. O. U. that would explicitly define the governance structure and decision-making processes relating to the reconnection hub of Ndigbo”, he added. 

Igwe used the opportunity to extend the institution’s deepest gratitude to Anakwenze and all the key officers of his noble organisations including but not limited to the current President of CISA, Dr. (Mrs) Josephine Uzoamaka Aguoji, the President Emeriti – Nze Amadiebube Mbaama, Engr James Ogbuka Umekwe, Hon Chudi Asidianya.

Others are,  Emeritus Prof Johnston Akuma Kalu Njoku (TICHA), Engr. Emeka Nwosu, Dr Sidney Louis Davis, Jnr., Chief Oliver Nwankwor, Prof Kevin J. Hales, Emeritus Assoc. Prof Douglas B. Chambers, Ambassador Jean Pillard, Dr. Sylvester Onyia, Prof Anthony Ejiofo, and the entire Ndigbo Diaspora Group for your invaluable support and unwavering dedication to the Igbo Cultural Village Complex project. 

“Our gratitude is no less due to the Board members and DSG, Subcommittees of CIS-CISA Igbo Cultural Village Secretariat for the successful organisation and hosting of the CIS-UNN’s 2d World Igbo Conference, 12-13 April, 2024. Your immeasurable and priceless contributions will leave a lasting legacy and serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

“Please, be assured of our warmest regards as we look forward to strengthening our partnership and

synergy as we work together to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people”, the letter concluded.