Department of Linguistics/Igbo Language

Celebrating language, preserving heritage — Dive into the richness of Igbo linguistics and the cultural legacy that shapes identity and communication.

About the Head of Department

Head of Department

Dr. C. N. Ikegwuonu

Dr. C. N. Ikegwuonu is the current Head of the Department of Linguistics/Igbo Language. A distinguished linguist and cultural advocate, she brings a dynamic blend of academic expertise and administrative skill to the department. Her leadership is rooted in the promotion of indigenous language education, cultural preservation, and scholarly excellence.

Passionate about advancing the study of Igbo language and linguistics, Dr. Ikegwuonu is dedicated to mentoring students and expanding research that connects language with identity, tradition, and modern communication. Her vision is to position the department as a leading center for African language studies, both nationally and internationally.

Pioneering Sustainable Futures

The Department of Linguistics/Igbo, under the Faculty of Arts at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, was established during the 2006/2007 academic session when the institution was known as Anambra State University. With Prof. P. I. Orajiaka as the then Vice Chancellor, the Department was founded with a strong vision to preserve and promote the Igbo language and culture. Since then, it has remained committed to enhancing students’ communication competence in Igbo—speaking, reading, and writing—while adapting to the demands of modern linguistic studies and technological developments.

Through its Linguistics programme, the Department engages in the scientific study of language, literature, and culture, thereby fostering the growth and sustainability of the Igbo language in an evolving world.

Academic Programmes and Accreditation

Undergraduate Programmes:
  • BA in Linguistics/Igbo (Single Honours)
  • BA in Linguistics/Igbo (Combined Honours)
Postgraduate Programmes:
  • Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Linguistics/Igbo
  • Master of Arts (MA) in Linguistics (Syntax, Morphology, Phonetics & Phonology, Semantics, Sociolinguistics, Applied Linguistics)
  • MA in Igbo Language, Written Literature, Oral Literature, and Translation
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Linguistics, Igbo Language, Igbo Written Literature, and Igbo Oral Literature

The Department has consistently maintained high academic standards, receiving full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) in the 2015/2016 and 2020/2021 sessions.

Leadership and Faculty

The Department has benefited from the leadership of notable scholars since its inception:

  • Mr. D. G. C. Onwuneme (2007–2010)
  • Dr. U. J. Ogbalu (2010–2012)
  • Dr. O. R. Ifeka (2012–2014)
  • J. N. Okeke (2014–2016)
  • A. N. C. Achebe (2016–2019)
  • Dr. O. T. Nsolibe (2019–2024)
  • Dr. C. N. Ikegwuonu (2024–Present)

The faculty is made up of dedicated full-time and adjunct lecturers who have significantly contributed to the department’s academic progress.

Achievements

  • Organized University-wide cultural fiestas and exhibitions in 2011 and 2014.
  • Won debate competitions at zonal and regional levels in 2012 and 2014.
  • Successfully introduced PhD programmes in 2019/2020 academic year.

Mission and Philosophy

Mission Statement:

The Department is dedicated to equipping students with sound linguistic and cultural knowledge that prepares them for meaningful societal contributions. It emphasizes analytical, oral, and written skills in Igbo, promoting fluency, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.

Philosophy:

Rooted in the need to revitalize the Igbo language and culture, the Department’s philosophy addresses the challenges of Western influence and dialectal diversity while fostering national unity, creativity, and identity preservation.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission:
  • UTME candidates must have at least five credit passes including English and Igbo.
  • Direct Entry and Part-Time applicants must possess relevant A-Level qualifications or NCE/ND/HND as applicable.
Postgraduate Admission:
  • PGD: Minimum of five O’Level credits including English and a degree from a recognized institution.
  • MA/PhD: Appropriate bachelor’s or master’s degree with required grade point average; NYSC completion or exemption is mandatory.

Future Targets

The Department aims to continue producing professionals capable of serving in roles such as:

  • Editors and creative writers
  • Language developers and researchers
  • Teachers and cultural officers
  • Translators, film producers, and media practitioners
  • Telecommunication and public relations officers

Department Location

The Department of Linguistics/Igbo is situated within the Faculty of Arts at the Igbariam Campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.