Umuezeanya Youths Chairman Urges Igbo Youths to be Good Cultural Ambassadors

By Olisemeka Obeche

The Chairman of Umuezeanya Youths Worldwide, of Umuoba Anam, Engr. Samuel Onyekwelu Udefi has advised youths to embrace and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo nation. Udefi made the call after receiving a chieftaincy title ‘Ọnwa na-eti-eti na Anam’ at Umuikwu Anam, Anambra West LGA, Anambra State. According to him, the Igbos, especially Anam have a rich culture that is gradually being eroded by civilization but conscious efforts must be made to ensure that youths embrace and promote their culture.”Most youths, especially in our area are shying away from certain cultural activities because they feel it’s a fetish whereas it’s not.

For instance, there is still a lot of misconception about the chieftaincy title but the truth is that it’s an inherent element of the Igbo culture.“In Anam, just like in other parts of Igboland, title-taking is valued as it is one of the greatest instruments of social control and authority and as such titled men are greatly respected. Therefore, I’m filled with joy that I have started this journey that separates great from ordinary men in Igbo society.’ Ọnwa’, as he is titled, therefore urged other youths to not only take titles but become proactive promoters of the Igbo language, culture, and tradition.

“We, especially the youths need to have a rethink concerning our attitude to our culture and traditions. And unless we begin to take concerted efforts to educate our youths on the importance of these cultural activities with a view of making them embrace and promote them, we risk losing them because they are gradually going into extinction.“So, I’m appealing to our youths to make it part and parcel of their life because we have no other culture than what our forefathers left for us. We can only refine them to add colour and relevance to them”, he adds. Udefi equally expressed his appreciation to the traditional ruler of the Ezi-Anam autonomous community, HRM, Igwe Nwaorji Ben Onyeaka (Ezedioranma of Ezi Anam), and his royal cabinet for the traditional title.

“Words cannot express the debt of my gratitude for being considered worthy of such a prestigious title in Anam. I’m also indebted to my age mates, Igwebuike Anam for also considering me worthy to be their President General. The same goes for Umuezeanya Youths Worldwide for their faith and support in chairmanship and administration.