Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on Ohanaeze Ndigbo to champion the revival of ageless cultural values and norms that once distinguished the Igbo nation from other ethnic groups.
Governor Otti made the call while addressing Executive Members of the Apex Igbo Socio-cultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Abia State Chapter, who paid him a visit at his country home in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area.
The Governor who expressed concern over the fast-eroding traditional values of the Igbo people, urged Igbo leaders and stakeholders to rise in defence of the cultural heritage and belief systems that set Ndigbo apart.
He emphasised that the responsibility of restoring core values such as honesty, hard work, resilience, dignity, and respect for elders now rests on Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other Igbo leaders.
Governor Otti also tasked the organisation with initiating programmes aimed at inculcating values in younger generations, and urged the leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo to carry along prominent Igbo sons and daughters in driving the Igbo project forward.
Earlier in his address, the State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr Chukwuemeka Okwuonu, noted that the organisation has already outlined various programmes to promote the rich cultural heritage of Ndigbo, including the preservation of the Igbo language.
Dr Okwuonu commended Governor Otti for making the study of the Igbo language compulsory in Primary and Secondary Schools across the State, describing it as a major step towards cultural preservation.
He disclosed that his leadership is partnering with various Igbo stakeholders to ensure that younger generations imbibe the culture of hard work, sincerity, and dignity in labour.
Dr Okwuonu further revealed that Ohanaeze Ndigbo plans to establish its structures in every Local Government Area of the state before the end of the year, promote the use of the Igbo language in homes, and organise annual cultural festivals starting in 2026.
He added that the organisation is also encouraging the Igbo apprenticeship scheme, which is aimed at promoting the transfer of skills to the youths.
