By Safiu Kehinde
The Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Charles Esimone has urged all South East stakeholders to bring the Igbo language back to life from decline.
Blueprint Newspapers reported that the VC, who was represented by his Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof. Fredrick Odigbo, stated this at the presentation of A Collection of 6000 Igbo names authored by Prof. Ngozika- Ezenwa Ohaeto.
Professor Esimone lamented over the declining state of Igbo language, pointing out the trend of having English language as status symbol which he labelled as harmful to the culture and heritage of the Igbo society.
He argued further that the Igbo language can be made a major lingua franca, providing that parents, teachers, and guardians are ready to sustain it.
The book reviewer, Professor Nkechinyere Nwokoye, stated that Igbo names showed identity and circumstances surrounding the birth and existence of Igbo people.
The author himself, however, earlier revealed that he was inspired by the way in which the young generation have bastardized Igbo names.
Also speaking at the event, Professor Chinyere Stella Okunna of Mass Communication department called for the remodification of the names of all anglicalized Igbo town. She advocated for the reintroduction of Igbo cultural festivals and carnivals in primary and secondary schools as well.
