The Vice Chancellor of Peter University, Achina, Reverend Father Professor Emmanuel Umezinwa, has urged Igbo musicians to promote the Igbo language through folk music to prevent its extinction. Professor Umezinwa made this call at a music seminar held at the headquarters of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) in Awka. The seminar was organized by Libra Entertainment in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, and Rotary International Zone 38 to mark the 2024 World Music Day celebration.
In his address on the “Importance of Music to Humanity and Commerce,” Professor Umezinwa explained that World Music Day aims to promote music by encouraging both professional and amateur musicians to perform in public and private spaces, highlighting music as a universal language of the soul. He urged prominent and upcoming Igbo musicians to emulate legends like the late Mike Ejeagha, Ali Chukwuma, and Osita Osadebe by promoting Igbo folk music. He also appealed to the government and affluent individuals to support young musicians by sponsoring traditional, local, and Christian music composed in Igbo.
The Commissioner for Culture, Tourism, and Entertainment, Comrade Don Onyenji, represented by Mr. Onochie Igbokwe, advised music lovers to avoid music that promotes immorality, violence, and crime. He emphasized the importance of consuming music with positive messages.
Architect Michael Okonkwo, Chairman of the occasion, noted that music is a great unifier and advised talented musicians to create content-rich music with Igbo significance to enhance their careers.
Dr. Azubuike Nkala, Director of General Studies at Paul University, Awka, encouraged youths to choose fulfilling career paths. Traditional rulers Igwe Ben Emeka of Umueri and Igwe Joel Egwuonwu of Umuawulu highlighted the importance of music to humanity and called for the establishment of more music departments in tertiary institutions to support those gifted in music who wish to study it academically.
The event featured performances by music lovers from Saint Patrick’s College and Saint John of God Secondary School in Awka, who entertained the audience with special tunes. The program was convened by Mr. Eze Onwunji of the Programmes Department, Anambra Broadcasting Service, and coordinated by the Assistant Governor of Rotary District 9142, Mr. Abuchi Nwozor.
