Igbos US-based conclude arrangements for cultural festival

Igbos in the United States have concluded arrangements to hold a cultural festival aimed at promoting their language and culture.

Professor Okechukwu Oranika, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the telephone from Atlanta, on Tuesday, that the event would hold from September 1 to September 3.

“The theme of this festival is Igbo Diaspora Cultural Heritage Festival 2017. It will be staged in Maryland, Washington DC.

“The aim is to save Igbo language from extinction. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) listed our language as one of those that may cease to exist in future and we are worried about this development,’’ he said.

Oranika said that concerned Igbos in America took the matter seriously and decided to hold the festival to promote the language and culture.

According to him, the festival is expected to attract traditional rulers, academics and eminent Igbos from Nigeria.

He said, “We love our language and culture and this festival is to draw the attention of the Igbo world on ways and means to address this obvious problem.”

The don said the event would feature a workshop, gala night and various cultural performances.

“The highlight of the event will be an Igbo men and women cultural wear competition. People will come in their native attires and take part in the competition.

“ Children in Igbo school in America will also be part of the festival,’’ Oranika said.