The rich cultural heritage of the Ibo people is set to take centre stage in Sevilla, Spain, as the 14th edition of the Ibo General Assembly (IGA) convention kicks off with a line-up of notable Nigerian figures, including Super Eagles star Kelechi Iheanacho, diplomat Bianca Ojukwu, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Naomey Nwachukwu.
The event, which promises a vibrant display of Ibo traditions, was confirmed by the Chairman of the Asociacion Cultural De Los Igbos En Sevilla, Frank Sam Chukwuemeka, during an exclusive interview.
He noted that the annual gathering is not only an opportunity for the Ibo community to come together but also to celebrate and share their cultural richness with the broader African and global community.
Chukwuemeka highlighted that Kelechi Iheanacho, recently signed to Sevilla FC, is one of the top figures expected to grace the occasion.
Also attending is Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of the revered Kemba Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, who played a pivotal role in the Ibo cause, and Ambassador Nwachukwu, who continues to strengthen diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Spain.
The convention will attract Ibo leaders and members from across Spain, Europe, Africa, and South America, emphasizing the global footprint of the Ibo diaspora.
“We Igbos are known for showcasing our culture wherever we go. This convention, however, is not exclusive to the Ibo community.
We are also welcoming participants from other African nations, and even South America, to join in the celebration,” Chukwuemeka said.
He added that the event is not just a cultural exhibition but a chance for immigrants from different backgrounds to unite and celebrate their heritage.
The program will feature a range of traditional activities, including a masquerade parade, the annual New Yam Festival, cultural dances, a fashion show, and a football match.
It will conclude with the election of new executives for the Ibo General Assembly, ensuring the organization’s continued leadership and representation in the diaspora.
Echoing Chukwuemeka’s enthusiasm, Uchenna Fabian Okolie, President of the Nigeria Association in Sevilla, described the preparations for the event as top-notch.
He emphasised the significance of the convention as an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s diversity and the Ibo people’s unique traditions.
“These cultural events are crucial in preserving our identity. Just as other nations have their way of life, we Africans, particularly Nigerians, have a rich cultural heritage that needs to be shared with the world,” Okolie stated.
He added that Nigeria’s multiculturalism provides a platform to constantly promote the country’s varied traditions, with gatherings like the Ibo General Assembly offering a powerful medium for such expression.
The Ibo General Assembly has grown in stature over the years, fostering unity among the Ibo people and allowing them to proudly display their rich customs.
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