The Abia State government under Alex Otti has announced plans to make Igbo language a compulsory subject in its curriculum to safeguard it from extinction.
Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu disclosed this while attending the final day of the Igbo-themed competition, Ekere Mgba Akpauche, organised by the Catholic Diocese of Aba.
He 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.”
He lamented that the Igbo language had been overshadowed by English, confirming predictions of its possible extinction.
Emetu commended the Catholic Diocese of Aba and other organisations for their efforts in revitalising the language but criticised Igbo parents for neglecting its use at home, Daily Post reports.
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.
