Report on participation to the 8th Igbo Studies Association (ISA) International Conference
"The ‘Igbo Question’ and the Reinvention of Igbo Nationalism in Contemporary Nigeria"
Paper presented at the 8th Igbo Studies Association (ISA) International Conference, on the theme: NIGERIA AT 50: The IGBO EXPERIENCE, in Commemoration of Nigeria’s 50th Independence Anniversary, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA, April 9 - 10, 2010.
This paper was presented at the 8th Igbo Studies Association (ISA) International Conference which was hosted by Howard University, Washington D.C. It was scheduled to commemorate Nigeria’s 50th Independence Anniversary and the Igbo experience Nigeria since independence. The 50th independence anniversary of Nigeria’s independence provided an auspicious moment for stock-taking or reappraisal of Igbo experiences within Nigeria, especially since independence. The goal of the 2010 conference which brought together prominent Igbo scholars from the United States, Europe and Africa, was to critically analyze and understand the past experiences and current state of the Igbo in an independent Nigeria so as to develop responsive, innovative ideas and concrete proposals not only for the survival but also advance of the Igbo in Nigeria. The conference was scheduled for two days, Friday 9th and Saturday 10th April, 2010. My paper titled: ‘The ‘Igbo Question’ and the Reinvention of Igbo Nationalism in Contemporary Nigeria’ was presented on Saturday 10th April 2010. I also had the privilege of interacting with key members of the Igbo diaspora abroad and their opinion as regards the quest for Igbo self-determination in Nigeria.
A Brief on ISA (According to its Stated Mission: http://igbostudiesassociation.org/).
The association aims to promote and encourage scholarship on IGBO history, culture and society in African studies as inaugurated and initiated at the African Studies Association (ASA) Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on November 8, 1999. It also aims to forge intellectual links and network with scholars, policy makers, and activists inside and outside NIGERIA and to participate actively and collaboratively in continental and global debates with interested organizations in Nigeria, the U.S. and other countries on issues specifically relevant to Igbo studies. For further information see: http://igbostudiesassociation.org/ .