In a significant move to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Igbo people, the Abia State government has announced plans to make the Igbo language a compulsory subject in schools across the state. The new policy, which will affect both public and private schools, is aimed at ensuring the younger generation is fluent in their native tongue and connected to their roots.
Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, in a statement issued today, expressed his firm commitment to fostering the growth and sustainability of the Igbo language, emphasizing that language is the cornerstone of culture and identity. “We are living in a rapidly changing world where the importance of our cultural values cannot be overstated. The Igbo language is an integral part of our identity, and it is our responsibility to ensure that it is preserved for future generations,” Governor Ikpeazu stated.
Under the new policy, all primary and secondary school students in Abia State will be required to learn Igbo, with designated periods dedicated to both oral and written proficiency. Teachers will undergo training to effectively deliver the curriculum, which will also include Igbo literature, proverbs, and history, ensuring a well-rounded cultural education.
The initiative has received widespread support from cultural groups, educators, and parents, who believe that the move will help maintain the relevance of Igbo in a rapidly globalizing world. Scholars and language activists have also hailed the decision, seeing it as a major step in reversing the decline of indigenous languages across Nigeria.
“Igbo is not just a language; it is the thread that binds us as a people. By making it compulsory in schools, we are ensuring that our children inherit the richness of our heritage,” said Dr. Chinyere Eze, a renowned linguist and advocate for indigenous languages.
The government also plans to collaborate with international organizations to provide resources and training for the program. The policy is expected to roll out in the upcoming academic year, with the full implementation across all schools in the state by the start of the following term.