The Igbo Union Ireland, a socio-cultural organisation with its origins in Nigeria’s south-east (formerly Biafra), is inviting the public to its first Igbo National Convention in Dublin from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 September.
The event will future a number of unique initiatives aimed at showcasing the rich cultural celebration of the Igbo people, activities of the union’s members and their impact, and the Igbo’s connection with Ireland, as well as events to inspire young people.
The weekend of events begins on Friday 20 September at the Carlton Hotel in Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15 with the maiden Afro-Irish Business Connect and Trade Show, which will be officially launched by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar.
Under the theme of ‘Celebrating Migrant Businesses in Ireland’, the show is being organised as part of the Gathering Ireland 2013. And according to the organisers: “It is an initiative aimed at supporting migrant businesses to make a statement of our critical and invaluable support for the Irish economy.”
Later on the Friday, an exclusive invitation-only red carpet gala awards night will include special guests’ speeches and live entertainment with Jesse Rose, Debsandy and DJ Boost.
The focus of the convention is the special cultural day at the National Show Centre in Swords on Saturday 21 September, with a programme that includes the annual new yam festival (Iriji), a fashion parade, an Igbo language competition for children, highlife and traditional music performances as well as dance, drama and traditional masquerade.
The convention will close on Sunday 22 September with a special inter-denominational church service, and a women’s conference.
Kelechi JK Onwumere, leader of the Igbo Union Dublin, which is co-ordinating the convention, said guests over the three days “will experience the uniqueness of our Igbo culture, our enterprise and our social nature”.
For further information, contact 085 728 2809 or info@igbounionireland.com.
