By Chizoba Njaka
The Council of Igbo States in America (CISA) and Igbo World Assembly (IWA) launched the first CISA Festival of Arts and Culture on December 12, 2025, at Ikendigbo Event Centre in Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area.
The event drew prominent Igbo figures from Nigeria and the Diaspora, including Caribbean-born descendant Prince Sidney Davis Eluemuno, His Majesty Eze Chukwuemeka Eri (Eze Akaji Ovo Igbo), Regent Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, scholars, and representatives from cultural groups across seven Igbo-speaking states.
Under the theme “Oganiru Ifediche” (Positive Impact), organizers aimed to reconnect global Igbo roots and spark a cultural renaissance rooted in shared history and identity.
The Keynote speaker, Prof. Chidi G. Osuagwu, Chairman of the African Centre for Biomedical Engineering Research, delivered “Transatlantic Igbo Civilization Bridge and Ndubuisi World Order.” He called on diaspora Igbos to preserve cultural sovereignty, citing the 1803 Igbo Landing where enslaved Igbos chose death over bondage as a symbol of unbreakable homeland ties. “Homecoming means cultural, psychological, and spiritual reconnection,” Osuagwu said.
The CISA President, Chief Mrs. Uzoamaka Josephine Aguoji hailed the festival’s return from the U.S. to Anambra as a milestone. “This dual-location model diaspora and home must endure. Future leaders, ensure it returns,”she said.
Prince Eluemuno, President of the Igbo Landing Project, urged Afro-American Igbo descendants to reclaim their roots. “Our culture is African. It’s time to come home,” he told reporters.
Hon. Okafor Okunwa, President-General of Abagana Welfare Union, praised the venue choice and Igbo resilience. The festival ended with traditional dances and masquerade displays.
Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
