On the 5th of February 2025, the University of Nigeria Nsukka hosted an expert workshop bringing together an interdisciplinary and diverse group of academics and researchers in Igbo studies to explore conceptualisations of solidarity in the Igbo context. Organised by scholars from the University of Ghana, the University of Oxford (Prof. Caesar Atuire, Ms. Imogen Brown) and the University of Nigeria Nsukka (Rev. Fr. Prof. Francis Njoku), the workshop explored practices of solidarity across Igbo history, knowledge systems, and the philosophical concepts and frameworks that underscore Igbo solidarity.
Titled "Igbo conceptualisations of solidarity in ways of acting, knowing, and being," the workshop opened with the blessing and sharing of the kola nut, a symbolic representation and affirmation of solidarity, aimed at recreating an organic community within the group.
The day started with a rich and vibrant exchange of ideas, including a “Tour de Table” where participants shared personal encounters and reflections of solidarity.
“ My experience in the community is that security is tackled through solidarity. For example, the community has assisted in arresting drug users and dealers (sellers) in the community. Through this act, the community is united in one thing – to make everybody safe,” said, one of the participants.
“When death strikes in my community, it's everyone’s affair. Going to the family as many times as possible, before and after the burial of the deceased, is one thing you have to do. For the youths, you have to make sure that you are seen often. Some youths within the kindred will be there to dig the grave. Everyone has a role to play and you play it without asking for anything”, another participant narrated.
Participants also highlighted key proverbs encapsulating Igbo solidarity:
- "Life to the fish, life to the water. It is the water that allows the fish to live, and it is the fish that defines the living water."
- "A child belongs to all; a child belongs to the community."
- "If the load is distributed equitably, it becomes lighter for the ant."
The “Tour de Table” was followed by an in-depth discussion on solidaristic practices. Participants identified three practices in a polling exercise, which included practices of mutual survival under adversity (such as during slavery and war), rites of passages (including birth, marriage and burial), and the collective responsibilities of the Umunna (the extended family and kinship group).
Participants reflected on historical and contemporary influences that have shaped Igbo solidarity, including the Nigeria-Biafra War, urbanisation, Western education, Christianity and colonisation, with reflections on how solidarity may have endured, evolved or become diluted.
The workshop concluded with a call for further engagement to deepen understanding of indigenous solidaristic practices and their potential applications in addressing contemporary global health challenges.
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