Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, Professor Charles Igwe, has commended the Chairman, Board of Presidents Council of Igbo States in Americas, CISA, & Igbo World Assembly,b IWA, and Onowu Abagana, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, for the success story of the 2nd CIS-UNN World Igbo Conference organised by the university on April 12-13, this year.
The 2-day event which was held at main campus of UNN behind the office of the Fidelity Bank Plc attracted top dignitaries from far and wide including the academia and organised private sector.
In a letter of appreciation personally signed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Igwe, on Saturday, he noted that university community was happy with Dr Anakwenze for his pioneering support and exceptional contributions toward the establishment of the Igbo Cultural Village Complex, ICVC..
The letter titled: “Appreciation” read, “May I, on behalf of the UNN, express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to your esteemed organisations, the Council of Igbo States in Americas, CISA, and Igbo World Assembly, IWA, for your pioneering support and exceptional contributions towards the establishment of the Igbo Cultural Village Complex, ICVC, a multi-billion-naira legacy project of the Centre for Igbo Studies, CIS, UNN, initiated under the leadership of the Director, Prof Chris Uchenna Agbedo.
“Under your distinguished leadership and guidance, your organisations have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of Igbo culture and heritage. Your tireless efforts in advancing the noble objectives of the CIS have been instrumental in propelling this transformative initiative forward.
“The generous financial contributions and immeasurable moral support from the Ndigbo Diaspora Group have played a pivotal role in the realization of the Igbo Cultural Village Complex, ICVC. Your dedication to the advancement of Igbo studies and culture serves as a shining example of collaboration and partnership between the university and the diaspora community.
“As we join hands to work towards the completion of this multi-billion-naira legacy project, we are inspired by the spirit of unity and solidarity demonstrated by the Ndigbo Diaspora Group. Your commitment to excellence and innovation has set a standard of excellence for collaborative endeavours in the preservation and celebration of Igbo heritage.
“The University of Nigeria recognizes the mutual benefits of collaboration (Public-Private-Partnership) in the establishment and management of the innovative ICVC project, and looks forward to an M. O. U. that would explicitly define the governance structure and decision-making processes relating to the reconnection hub of Ndigbo.
“Kindly permit me to extend our deepest gratitude to you and all the key officers of your noble organisations including but not limited to the current President of CISA, Dr. (Mrs.) Josephine Uzoamaka Aguoji, the President Emeriti – Nze Amadiebube Mbaama, Engr James Ogbuka Umekwe, Hon Chudi Asidianya, and Exco members – Emeritus Prof Johnston Akuma Kalu Njoku, TICHA, Engr. Emeka Nwosu, Dr Sidney Louis Davis, Jnr., Chief Oliver Nwankwor, Prof Kevin J. Hales, Emeritus Assoc. Prof Douglas B. Chambers, Ambassador Jean Pillard, Dr. Sylvester Onyia, Prof Anthony Ejiofo, and the entire Ndigbo Diaspora Group for your invaluable support and unwavering dedication to the Igbo Cultural Village Complex project.
“Our gratitude is no less due to the Board members and DSG, Subcommittees of CIS-CISA Igbo Cultural Village Secretariat for the successful organisation and hosting of the CIS-UNN’s 2nd World Igbo Conference, 12-13 April, 2024. Your immeasurable and priceless contributions will leave a lasting legacy and serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
“Please, be assured of our warmest regards as we look forward to strengthening our partnership and synergy as we work together to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people."
