Abia State government has said that it will make Igbo language a compulsory subject in its curriculum, to promote the language and save it from extinction.
This was made known by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, who was a guest of honour on the final day of an Igbo themed competition “Ekere Mgba Akpauche”, organised by Catholic Diocese of Aba, Abia State.
In his words “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 noted that it was unfortunate that the Igbo language had been overtaken by the English language, thereby confirming a prediction of its extinction in a short while.
Emetu commended the Catholic Diocese of Aba and other organisations for all their efforts towards the revitalization and revival of Igbo language.
He, however, regretted that most Igbo parents and guardians contributed to the loss of prestige and flavour of Igbo language because they did not like to use Igbo language in their homes.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Bishop of Aba Diocese, Rt Rev Augustine Echema, commended the Deputy Governor, Emetu for the State government’s support for the revival of Igbo language.
He praised Rev. Fr. Onyinye Anaeto for coming up with the idea of an Igbo themed programme for students.