In a bold step to preserve the Igbo language and prevent its extinction, the Abia State government has announced plans to make it a compulsory subject in schools. Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu revealed this initiative during the grand finale of Ekere Mgba Akpauche, an Igbo-themed competition organized by the Catholic Diocese of Aba.
Emetu emphasized the urgency of the move, stating, “The new Abia is committed to reviving the Igbo language. We are working towards making it a mandatory part of our curriculum and urge other South-East governors to follow suit by ensuring it is prioritized at all levels of education.”
He expressed concern over the steady decline of the language, blaming its overshadowing by English and reinforcing fears that Igbo could face extinction if deliberate efforts are not made to revive and sustain it.
Commending the Catholic Diocese of Aba and other cultural organizations for their dedication to preserving Igbo heritage, Emetu criticized Igbo parents for neglecting to pass the language down to their children. “The responsibility of sustaining our language starts at home,” he asserted.
Bishop Rt. Rev. Augustine Echema, in his welcome address, lauded the state government’s commitment to the cause and praised Rev. Fr. Onyinye Anaeto for initiating the Ekere Mgba Akpauche competition, which celebrates Igbo culture and heritage.
The move by the Abia State government marks a significant step in the fight against the gradual erosion of indigenous languages, sparking hopes that other states in the South-East will adopt similar policies to protect and promote Igbo heritage for future generations.
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