A Bridge Across Time: University of Benin and Onicha-Olona Community Partner for Cultural and Historical Preservation
The University of Benin and the Onicha-Olona community in Delta State, Nigeria, have embarked on a collaborative journey to preserve and celebrate their shared history and cultural heritage. This partnership was solidified during a recent visit by a delegation from Onicha-Olona to the university, where they presented a newly published book, “History of the African Community (Ikhiomoto): The History of Onicha-Olona Kingdom,” authored by Prince Ephraim Nwabuokei. The book delves into the historical connections between the Onicha-Olona people and the Benin Kingdom, highlighting a rich tapestry of intertwined narratives. This presentation marked a significant step towards strengthening the ties between the two entities and fostering a deeper understanding of their common ancestry.
Professor Edoba Omoregie, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, warmly received the delegation and expressed his commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the Onicha-Olona community. Recognizing the importance of preserving historical knowledge, Professor Omoregie lauded the community’s efforts in documenting their history and affirmed the university’s role in supporting this endeavor. He emphasized the value of the book as a crucial resource for students and scholars seeking to delve into the intricate history of the region. The Vice-Chancellor pledged to make the book readily accessible within the university’s library, ensuring its preservation and widespread dissemination among the academic community.
Chief Ogoliegbune, a member of the Onicha-Olona delegation, expressed his gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for embracing the book and acknowledging its significance in educating future generations about the historical relationship between Onicha-Olona and the Benin Kingdom. He underscored the importance of preserving this invaluable historical knowledge and making it available to a wider audience, particularly within the academic sphere. The symbolic presentation of the book to the Vice-Chancellor further cemented the burgeoning partnership between the university and the Onicha-Olona community, signaling a shared commitment to cultural preservation and historical research.
Prince Ephraim Nwabuokei, the author of the book, joined the gathering virtually and expressed his appreciation to the university leadership for their enthusiastic reception of his work. He emphasized the critical need for historical documentation as a means of bridging gaps in collective memory and fostering a greater understanding of shared heritage. Prince Nwabuokei’s work serves as a testament to the importance of community-driven initiatives in preserving local histories and ensuring that these narratives are incorporated into broader historical discourse.
The partnership between the University of Benin and the Onicha-Olona community represents a powerful example of collaborative efforts to safeguard cultural heritage and historical knowledge. By working together, these two entities are not only preserving the rich history of the region but also creating opportunities for future generations to learn from and appreciate their shared ancestry. The book, “History of the African Community (Ikhiomoto): The History of Onicha-Olona Kingdom,” serves as a tangible symbol of this collaboration, offering a valuable resource for scholars and students alike.
This collaboration extends beyond the mere preservation of historical records. It signifies a commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical ties that bind the Onicha-Olona community and the Benin Kingdom. By providing a platform for research and education, the University of Benin is playing a crucial role in promoting inter-community dialogue and strengthening the bonds of shared heritage. This partnership sets a precedent for other communities and institutions to collaborate in preserving their unique histories and fostering a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of African heritage.
