Matthew Onocheta
Nigeria’s Abia State government has announced plans to make Igbo language a compulsory subject in its curriculum to safeguard it from extinction, the state’s deputy governor said.
“The new Abia is interested in reviving Igbo language by trying to see how we will make Igbo compulsory in the curriculum and should be given a priority by the South-East Governors while making it compulsory at all levels of education,” Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu said at an Igbo-themed competition, Ekere Mgba Akpauche, organised by the Catholic Diocese of Aba.
Emetu lamented that the Igbo language had been overshadowed by English, and commended the Catholic Diocese of Aba and other organisations for their efforts in revitalising the language.
He criticised Igbo parents for neglecting its use at home.
Bishop Rt Rev Augustine Echema, in his welcome address, lauded the state government’s support and praised Rev. Fr. Onyinye Anaeto for initiating the Igbo-themed programme.
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