The pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has appointed four professors to spearhead efforts aimed at promoting and preserving the Igbo language.
The move is part of renewed initiatives by the organisation to address concerns about the declining use of the language among younger generations.
Effort to Preserve Igbo Cultural Identity
According to the organisation, the newly appointed academics are expected to contribute their expertise toward developing strategies that will strengthen the teaching, documentation, and everyday use of the Igbo language.
The initiative is intended to encourage wider adoption of the language in schools, communities, and public discourse.
Addressing Concerns Over Language Decline
Cultural advocates have increasingly raised concerns about the reduced use of indigenous languages across Nigeria, including Igbo, particularly among urban youth.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo said involving scholars with deep knowledge of Igbo linguistics and culture would help create structured programmes aimed at revitalising the language and preserving the cultural heritage of the Igbo people.
Promoting Language Education
The organisation also emphasised the importance of integrating indigenous languages into educational systems and cultural activities.
By engaging academics and cultural experts, the group hopes to develop initiatives that will encourage younger generations to learn and actively use the language.
Observers say such efforts are crucial in ensuring that Nigeria’s indigenous languages remain vibrant and continue to serve as important markers of cultural identity.