The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu has emphasized the urgent need to preserve and promote the Igbo language to prevent its extinction, noting that language is central to identity and cultural survival.
He stated this while receiving members of staff of the Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages, Faculty of Humanities of the university at his conference room.
Prof. Ifeoma Nweze, in her remarks, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the university management and to reaffirms the department’s commitment to the institution’s academic and cultural mission. She stressed that synergy between departments and central administration is vital for building a unified institution.
Prof. Nweze noted that although work in Linguistics and Nigerian Languages is often overlooked, it is critical to national identity, cultural memory, and the preservation of Nigeria’s endangered languages, particularly Igbo. She expressed concern over the poor storage conditions currently threatening the department’s extensive collection of linguistic and cultural artifacts gathered through years of fieldwork and research.
Describing Igbo artifacts as a collective academic and national heritage, she appealed for a dedicated preservation space within the Iruka Centre, citing its role as the university’s hub for cultural and intellectual engagement, noting “If lost, these materials can never be reclaimed”.
Responding, Prof. Nwachukwu commended the department for its proactive engagement and lauded its role in documenting and sustaining Nigeria’s linguistic traditions.
The Vice-Chancellor immediately directed that the requested space be made available at the Iruka Centre, assuring the delegation of management’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
He further expressed appreciation for the department’s efforts in advancing research, documentation, and advocacy for indigenous languages.
The delegation expressed gratitude for the swift response and reaffirmed its readiness to partner with university management in promoting cultural preservation and academic excellence.
