A non-governmental organization, the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, has partnered with stakeholders and the Ebonyi State government to revive Igbo culture and traditions, which are reportedly facing near extinction.
The foundation, led by Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) at Ebonyi State University, organized a cultural carnival and art exhibition to showcase African culture, with a particular focus on the heritage of Ebonyi State.
The event also included the launch of the book Echoes of a Regal Throne at the university’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Hall in Abakaliki.
Prominent attendees included Governor Francis Nwifuru, former governor and current Minister of Education Dr. Sam Egwu, and the Vice-Chancellor of Ebonyi State University, Prof. Micheal Awoke.
Governor Nwifuru, represented by Prof. Grace Umezuruike, Secretary to the State Government, emphasized government efforts to preserve Igbo culture and the importance of protecting traditional rulers.
Similarly, Dr. Egwu, represented by Dr. John Otu, urged that recognized traditional rulers be granted formal security, akin to political officeholders, to safeguard the custodians of cultural heritage.
Prof. Ogba highlighted the importance of remembering and celebrating Ebonyi’s history, noting that traditional leadership once embodied justice, equity, and fairness.
He stressed that modern society has often undervalued indigenous culture, favoring Western influences instead.
As part of the Ogbaekirigwe Legacy Project, the foundation also empowered local artists with over ₦1.5 million during the exhibition.
Uchechukwu Agbo, President of One Youth Global, called for stronger partnerships between NGOs and government to ensure the preservation of cultural heritage in Ebonyi, Nigeria, and across Africa.
