The Project Director of Igbo Cinema, Eke David Ikechukwu, has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at preserving and promoting Igbo culture, language, and values through film. Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki, Eke explained that the project, led by Amb. Pete Edochie, was conceived to counter the erosion of Igbo heritage and ensure future generations remain connected to their roots.
“What inspired us into this project was the gradual extinction of Igbo culture, language, and myths,” he said. “There is a pressing need for us to tell our stories, document our history, and showcase our way of life—how we dress, how we marry, and how we farm. Many Igbos, even adults, struggle to speak their language fluently. This project aims to reverse that trend by promoting our heritage through films.”
Eke referenced a UNESCO report warning that the Igbo language, like Latin, faces extinction unless proactive measures are taken. He lamented the abandonment of Igbo cultural identities in favour of foreign influences and emphasized the project's goal of inspiring a cultural renaissance.
At the helm of the Igbo Cinema project is renowned Nollywood icon Amb. Pete Edochie, the leader of the initiative and its chairman. Describing him as “a father with a wealth of knowledge and experience,” Ekeh credited Edochie for ensuring the authenticity of the project’s storylines and cultural depictions.
“Our scripts undergo rigorous vetting by experts—our chairman, Amb. Pete Edochie, and other seasoned Nollywood professionals,” Eke said. “We don’t just write; we conduct thorough research and hold conferences to exchange ideas and experiences. This ensures our films truly reflect Igbo traditions and values.”
The project has announced 13 captivating titles, with two films—Ojadili and Obi Nwanne—slated to be produced in February 2025. Ekeh highlighted Ojadili as a story deeply rooted in Igbo folklore, featuring elements like wrestling, traditional marriage ceremonies, and farming practices.
“These films will showcase the true essence of Igbo life and culture to a global audience,” he explained. “Through these stories, we aim to project Igbo heritage to the cinematic world while preserving it for future generations.”
Reflecting on challenges faced, Eke noted that funding and partnerships were initially difficult to secure. However, support from the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru was instrumental in the project’s successful unveiling at the Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki, which Ekeh described as “the largest gathering of Igbo people worldwide.”
“Ebonyi State Government has been a major source of motivation,” he said. “Their partnership set the pace for other states and stakeholders to join this cultural revival.”
Despite the successes, Eke expressed concern about the underrepresentation of Igbo professionals in Nollywood. “The Igbos are the pioneers of Nigeria’s movie industry, yet our presence on global platforms like Netflix and Prime Video remains limited,” he said. “This project is our way of reclaiming our space and telling our stories authentically.”
Eke voiced optimism about the project’s potential to elevate Igbo culture on the global cinematic stage. Plans are underway to collaborate with the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Calling on Igbos and well-wishers to support the initiative, Ekeh praised Governor Nwifuru for setting a precedent. “This project is a clarion call to unite Igbos in celebrating our identity and telling our stories,” he said.
As the project prepares for its 2025 releases, Eke remains steadfast in his mission of cultural preservation. “The Igbos are known for love and unity, and this project embodies those values,” he concluded. “Through Igbo Cinema, we will leave an indelible mark on the world.”
