In a bid to safeguard the Igbo language from extinction, the Abia State government, led by Governor Alex Otti, has announced plans to make Igbo language a compulsory subject in its curriculum. This move aims to revive the language and promote its use among younger generations.
Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu disclosed this plan while attending the final day of the Igbo-themed competition, Ekere Mgba Akpauche, organized by the Catholic Diocese of Aba. Emetu emphasized the importance of reviving the Igbo language, stating that “the new Abia is interested in reviving Igbo language by trying to see how we will make Igbo compulsory in the curriculum” .
Emetu also called on the South-East Governors to prioritize the language and make it compulsory at all levels of education. He lamented that the Igbo language has been overshadowed by English, confirming predictions of its possible extinction .
The Deputy Governor commended the Catholic Diocese of Aba and other organizations for their efforts in revitalizing the language. However, he criticized Igbo parents for neglecting the use of the language at home .
Bishop Rt Rev Augustine Echema praised the state government’s support and commended Rev. Fr. Onyinye Anaeto for initiating the Igbo-themed program,
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