The Resurgence of the Igede Nation: A Proud Heritage Rediscovered -By Caleb Onah

In the heart of Nigeria’s Benue State lies the resurgent Igede Nation, a proud community whose rich heritage is experiencing a remarkable renaissance. Comprising a vibrant and resilient people, the Igede Nation is witnessing a renewed focus on cultural preservation, socio-economic development, and political empowerment. With their distinctive language, traditions, and aspirations, the Igede people are carving a path towards a promising future while proudly embracing their past.

A Cultural Tapestry Woven Through Time

The Igede people trace their roots to ancient times, with historical evidence suggesting that their ancestors settled in the fertile plains of Benue State over 400 years ago.

With an unwavering commitment to their cultural heritage, the Igede have preserved their unique customs, dances, music, and traditional attire. Through these expressions, they tell the story of their journey, their triumphs, and the challenges they have overcome.

In recent years, the Igede people have embarked on a concerted effort to revive and celebrate their cultural practices. Festivals such as the Igede Agba (New Yam Festival) and the Igede Ekile (Masquerade Festival) have experienced resurgence, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

These vibrant events showcase the Igede’s deep-rooted traditions and serve as a platform for cultural exchange, fostering unity and pride within the community.

The Igede language, a distinct dialect within the Idoma subgroup of the Niger-Congo language family, plays a crucial role in preserving the community’s identity. Recognising the importance of language preservation, local organisations, educational institutions, and community leaders have taken significant steps to promote the Igede language through formal education, language workshops, and cultural events. These efforts have not only preserved the language but have also revitalised a sense of belonging among the younger generation.

While cultural resurgence is a vital aspect of the Igede re-emergence, the community has also been actively pursuing socio-economic development. The Igede people, traditionally farmers, have expanded their economic activities to include trade, entrepreneurship, and modern agricultural practices. This diversification has resulted in increased income generation, improved standards of living, and the creation of employment opportunities for the youth.

Political empowerment has been another crucial aspect of the Igede Nation’s re-emergence. The community recognises the need to have a voice in decision-making processes that directly impact their lives.

Through concerted efforts, Igede leaders have successfully lobbied for increased political representation at the local, state, and federal levels. This has resulted in a stronger platform for advocating for the community’s needs, influencing policies, and ensuring equitable resource allocation. Instance is, Barrister Jacob Ajene.

The Igede people have a deep reverence for their natural surroundings, understanding that the environment is central to their well-being. As custodians of the land, they have embraced sustainable farming practices and are actively involved in reforestation efforts. This commitment to environmental preservation is not only crucial for the Igede community’s sustainability but also contributes to Nigeria’s larger goals of combating climate change and protecting biodiversity.

Recognising the importance of education in shaping the future of the Igede Nation, like the College of Education, Ihiejwo Oju, Methodist College of Health Technology, Ebenta Uwoku Formerly College of Health Technology, Obwobwu, Okaha Polytechnic, Okpodom Oju, Academy of Medical Health and Education, Igwoke Uwokwu, Bright Polytechnic Okpokwu, Ito, where the community has placed a strong emphasis on improving educational opportunities for its members.

Schools and educational institutions have been established, offering quality education that incorporates both modern subjects and traditional knowledge. This approach ensures that the younger generation not only gains access to a wider range of career opportunities but also remains connected to their cultural heritage. Efforts have also been made to document and preserve the oral history, folklore, and traditional knowledge of the Igede people.

Elders and storytellers within the community have been actively engaged in passing down their wisdom and ancestral narratives to the younger generation. This preservation of knowledge not only strengthens the cultural fabric of the Igede Nation but also contributes to a broader understanding of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.

The resurgence of the Igede Nation has also sparked interest among tourists and cultural enthusiasts. The community’s vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and unique customs offer a rich cultural experience for visitors seeking to explore the diversity of Nigeria.

Efforts to promote tourism in the region have gained momentum, with collaborations between local authorities, tourism agencies, and community members to showcase the Igede heritage to a wider audience. Tourist centres like The Most Sacred Ipinu- Igede, River Oyongo and Its Seven Tributaries Etc has gathered lots of attention and interest from tourist seekers as well.

Cultural exchange programs have played a significant role in promoting the Igede culture and fostering understanding between different communities. Through such initiatives, the Igede people have had the opportunity to share their traditions, values, and artistic expressions with people from other regions of Nigeria and beyond. This cross-cultural interaction not only promotes unity and appreciation but also presents economic opportunities through the development of tourism infrastructure and services.

Challenges and the Prospect for the Nigeria

While the re-emergence of the Igede Nation brings hope and progress, it is not without its challenges. Like many communities in Nigeria, the Igede people face infrastructural deficits, limited access to healthcare services, and inadequate educational resources. These challenges hinder the community’s overall development and require concerted efforts from both the government and the community itself to overcome them.

Additionally, the rapid pace of modernisation and globalisation poses a risk to the preservation of the Igede cultural heritage. The younger generation, exposed to external influences, may be drawn away from their traditions and values. It is crucial to strike a balance between embracing progress and preserving the essence of the Igede identity.

To address these challenges, collaboration between the government, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders is essential. Key areas of focus should include: Investments in infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water supply are crucial for socio-economic growth and improved living conditions within the Igede Nation. Accessible and quality healthcare services need to be provided to ensure the well-being of the community. This includes the establishment of healthcare facilities and training opportunities for medical professionals within the Igede Nation.

Continued efforts to enhance educational opportunities, research, vocational training, and skill development programs will empower the Igede youth, equipping them with the tools necessary to contribute to the community’s progress. Strengthening cultural preservation initiatives, including the integration of traditional knowledge into educational curricula, supporting cultural festivals, and establishing museums or cultural centres will ensure the continued celebration and preservation of the Igede heritage.

Promoting sustainable farming practices, protecting natural resources, and engaging in environmental awareness campaigns will contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the Igede Nation. However, with continued support and collaboration, the Igede people can build a thriving community that serves as an inspiration for other cultures and contributes to the diverse tapestry of Nigeria’s national identity.