Bosede Akinmade
Fearful of losing their cultural heritage, Igbo women under the banner of the Igbo Women Assembly (IWA) are stepping up to revive their beloved language. Witnessing the decline of Igbo in daily life, particularly among younger generations, they’ve designed a multifaceted program to champion its use.
The IWA’s mission is clear: ensure Igbo thrives in homes across Nigeria and even in the diaspora. To kickstart their efforts, they’re celebrating the UN’s International Day for Mother Tongue in grand style. On February 21st, Owerri, the heart of Imo State, will host a vibrant event honoring the beauty and richness of the Igbo language.
But their vision extends beyond a single celebration. Lolo Nneka Chimezie, the IWA’s National President, issued a heartfelt plea to Igbo youth, especially young parents. She implored them to reclaim their birthright by embracing Igbo as the language of choice within their families.
“Igbo is our very essence,” she declared, highlighting the Assembly’s long-standing tradition of celebrating Mother Tongue Day. They’ve already established seven schools in Lagos dedicated to teaching Igbo, a testament to their dedication. Their ambition doesn’t stop there; they envision a network of Igbo language centers across all Nigerian states, nurturing a love for the language in every corner of the nation.
Chimezie, however, expressed concern at the growing trend of young mothers neglecting Igbo with their children. This, she warned, poses a grave threat to the language’s survival. “If we don’t act now,” she stated with urgency, “we could lose Igbo entirely within a decade.”
The IWA’s initiative is a powerful reminder that languages are not merely tools of communication but living tapestries woven with history, identity, and belonging. Through their efforts, they aim to ensure that future generations not only understand Igbo but also feel its rhythmic beauty reverberate within their souls.
