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Russia, Nigeria Share Many Values, Says GenSec of Igbo Community in Russia

Earlier this month, an Igbo cultural festival was held in Moscow under the theme "Identifying our root and connecting ourselves." Organized by the Igbo Community of Russia, the colorful event showcased the traditions of the Igbo people of Nigeria.
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Nze Ikay Umenne, General Secretary of the Igbo Community in Russia, recently spoke with Sputnik Africa about the vibrant Igbo culture and the strong bonds that connect the Igbo diaspora to their homeland.
He emphasized the deep-rooted family values that are central to Igbo identity, mirroring a similar emphasis in Russia, which he calls his "second home."

"Russia has a lot of similarities with Nigeria and especially Ndi-Igbo because it's a country where family values are paramount, and that is one thing Ndi-Igbo has that is very important to the Igbo man – family " Umenne said.

He also highlighted unique aspects of Igbo culture, including their distinctive language, music, and vibrant artistic traditions. Furthermore, he explained that the strong community bonds within the Igbo culture are exemplified by the presence of the Igbo community in Russia.

"I am happy the Russian government has started looking towards Africa… The important thing is that the Russian administration today should understand that they are wholeheartedly welcomed in Africa, especially in Nigeria," he said, further expressing his strong belief in the potential for cooperation between Russia and Igboland (which stretches from eastern Nigeria to part of Niger).

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The General Secretary of the Igbo Community in Russia also outlined a series of socio-political initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between Russia and the Igbo people of Nigeria, emphasizing mutual benefits and cultural exchange.

"There is a need to organize programs whereby Ndigbo and Russia will be having this cultural exchange explaining details of what and what we do, the seasons they come in and how they are supposed to be done in Igbo land," he said.