The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has officially opened the second edition of Ekeremgba Akpauche, a cultural and educational programme organized by the Catholic Diocese of Aba. The ceremony took place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at CKC, Aba, with Governor Otti represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.
The initiative is designed to promote the Igbo language, culture, and values among secondary school students across the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti described Ekeremgba Akpauche as a timely and significant platform for nurturing young Abians who are proud of their heritage. He stressed the role of language in preserving identity, quoting the Igbo proverb: “Asụsụ bụ njirimara onye” (“Language is the identity of a people”).
He praised the Catholic Diocese of Aba for sustaining the programme and commended the success of the maiden edition, noting that the expansion reflects a strong commitment to cultural development.
Governor Otti emphasized the importance of initiatives that cultivate knowledge, character, and integrity among students.
He noted that Ekeremgba Akpauche aligns with the state government’s vision of a “New Abia,” built on education, cultural pride, and ethical leadership. The programme, he said, provides young people with the tools to appreciate their roots while preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.
The governor encouraged them to take pride in their language and culture, while reflecting Abia’s core values through their conduct as well and commended teachers, parents, and organizers for their dedication in mentoring the youth and called on other Igbo-speaking states to replicate similar initiatives, emphasizing that the preservation of heritage is a collective responsibility.
He assured continued support from the Abia State Government for the programme and wished all participating schools success in the competition, stressing that initiatives like Ekeremgba Akpauche are vital for shaping a generation grounded in culture, knowledge, and integrity.
Bishop Augustine Ndubueze Echemba, represented by Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Chukwuma, thanked Rev. Fr. Onyinyechi Anaeto for organizing the programme, highlighting its role in helping children learn, speak, and appreciate Igbo.
Rev. Fr. Anaeto explained that Ekeremgba Akpauche showcases students’ intellectual talents through debates, quizzes, and traditional games, with participation from 25 secondary schools, including Christ the King College. He called for greater integration of Igbo in education and better support for language teachers.
The event featured choral renditions, debates, quizzes, and traditional games, attended by clergy, government officials, and Hon. Ucheonye Stephen Akachukwu, representing Aba South State Constituency.
