Umuahia, Abia State Nigeria –
In a heartfelt message commemorating Mother’s Day, the President-General of the Igbo World Union (IWU), His Imperial Majesty Amb. Sir Dr. Mishak Nnanta, KJW, Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum, has lauded the resilience, dedication, and cultural influence of mothers, particularly in the Igbo community.
Speaking to newsmen from his Ikiri Palace in Umuahia, Nnanta emphasized the indispensable role of mothers in nurturing families, instilling values, and preserving the rich heritage of the Igbo people.
He described mothers as the bedrock of society, noting that their unwavering sacrifices and selfless contributions shape the future of communities and the nation at large.
“You deserve to be celebrated, not just today, but every day. Mothers are the heartbeat of our homes, the pillars of our traditions, and the first teachers of our children. It is through them that our customs, language, and values are passed down from one generation to another,” Nnanta stated.
He particularly underscored the significance of Igbo mothers in preserving the Igbo language and culture, warning that the erosion of native dialects and traditions poses a threat to the identity of the Igbo people.
“Our culture is our pride, and the preservation of the Igbo language begins with our mothers. If we are to keep our identity alive, we must encourage our children to speak Igbo, learn our proverbs, participate in our traditional ceremonies, and appreciate our ancestral heritage,” he said.
The IWU President also used the occasion to advocate for greater respect, support, and empowerment for Nigerian mothers, urging the government and society to recognize the vital roles women play in nation-building.
“As a society, we must do more to appreciate and uplift our mothers. They need access to quality healthcare, education, and economic opportunities that enable them to thrive. A nation that neglects its mothers cannot truly prosper,” Nnanta asserted.
He called for policies that promote maternal welfare, economic empowerment, and gender equality, stressing that investing in mothers is a direct investment in the future of Nigeria.
“As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us also reflect on how we can support the women who sacrifice so much for us. Our mothers deserve to be honored not just in words but in meaningful actions that improve their lives and the lives of future generations,” Nnanta concluded.