The Traditional Ruler of Abatete in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Emeka Efobi, has urged Igbo people in the diaspora to intensify efforts toward preserving and promoting Igbo culture and values, warning against their gradual erosion.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the monarch made the call while conferring the chieftaincy title of Ichie Atu Abatete on Dr. Chinedu Ikeanyi, a California-based physician.
Ikeanyi is the son of the late Davidson, a former traditional ruler of Enugu-Agidi community in Njikoka Local Government Area of the state.
Igwe Efobi commended Ikeanyi for sustaining his father’s legacy by mentoring younger generations abroad to live in ways consistent with Igbo traditions and values.
He also congratulated him on his election as Secretary General of the Association of Nze na Ozo and Chiefs (ANOC), Southern California, United States.
According to the monarch, Ikeanyi was recognised for his commitment to promoting African culture and values, as well as his support for the less privileged both within and outside Nigeria. He urged him to sustain the momentum and charged young people, especially those living overseas, to remain connected to their roots wherever they reside.
In his remarks, Ikeanyi described the chieftaincy title as a call to greater service in rebuilding the Igbo nation through cultural promotion and charitable activities.
Recalling his long-standing relationship with the Abatete people, he encouraged Igbo in the diaspora to remain committed to the peace, progress and development of their home communities.
He noted that ANOC has remained at the forefront of promoting Igbo culture through education and sensitization, particularly on marriage, the importance of the Igbo language, and the values required to build stable homes in line with ancestral heritage and international best practices.
“We ensure that Igbos living or studying in the United States understand that our culture remains among the best in the world. We visit schools, faculties and communities to engage our people,” he said.
According to him, the organisation regularly organises programmes to encourage the use of the Igbo language, pride in traditional attire and respect for core cultural values.
Ikeanyi explained that Igbo cultural teachings promote shared responsibility in the family, noting that household chores and provision for the family are not restricted to any gender.
“You do not abandon sweeping, laundry or washing of plates because you are a titleholder,” he said.
He added that titleholders are expected to serve as ambassadors of peace, truth and justice, while encouraging people in the diaspora to visit home regularly and invest in legacy projects.
Speaking at the event, Chief Innocent Anieme, a native of Enugu-Agidi and a civil servant, described the title as well deserved and urged Ikeanyi to continue to uphold his father’s legacy.
Another community member, Mr Pius Okonkwo, praised Ikeanyi for his dedication to the Igbo cause both at home and abroad, describing him as a trailblazer whose love for humanity transcends status and boundaries.
He called on other well-to-do individuals in the community to emulate Ikeanyi’s humility and commitment to service.
