The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) has announced an initiative to honour the legacy of the late literary icon through a creative competition for youths under 21.

The national poetry competition is to be named in his honour, and in year one, it will ask young poets to reimagine his works and deliver them in their own ways, but after year one, it will explore other poets as well.

This initiative coincides with the significant recognition of Okigbo’s archives, which have recently been inducted into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.

This prestigious accolade underscores the global importance of Okigbo as one of Nigeria’s most influential literary figures. His poetry masterfully combines Igbo spirituality with modernist elements, continuing to resonate and inspire audiences worldwide.

In 2007, Okigbo was honoured as the first Nigerian and the first African to receive this distinction, with his manuscripts, letters, photographs, and unpublished works celebrated as part of humanity’s collective heritage. This recognition not only immortalises a remarkable writer whose life was tragically cut short during the Civil War but also ensures that his powerful words will inspire future generations.

The Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Obi Asika, emphasised the importance of purposefully honouring the legacies of distinguished Nigerians whose contributions are central to the nation’s identity.

He extended congratulations to the Okigbo family and the Okigbo Foundation, highlighting the profound impact that authentic art can have on cultural preservation. He also expressed gratitude to UNESCO for its ongoing efforts to elevate Nigerian creativity.

Asika underscored NCAC’s dedication to showcasing genuine Nigerian narratives crafted by talented individuals.
“Part of our mission at the National Council of Arts and Culture is to become a hub for storytelling,” he stated. “Our program, Origins, focuses on archiving our rich cultural heritage. I often discuss ‘connected culture’ because I prefer that term over ‘unity in diversity.’ It’s crucial to find commonalities in our culture that allow us to celebrate one another inclusively. The true strength lies in our stories and culture, which figures like Christopher Okigbo have so powerfully inspired.”