Insight into Igbo Archives: An Interview with Onyeka Nwokike
In an era where cultural heritage and historical narratives are increasingly at risk of being overshadowed by rapid modernization, it’s important to have custodians who diligently work to preserve and celebrate our rich histories. Today, we are honored to feature Onyeka Nwokike, a brilliant mind and the driving force behind Igbo Archives, a website dedicated to documenting and preserving Igbo history.
Through his meticulous efforts, Onyeka’s work with Igbo Archives not only safeguards the past but also ensures that future generations can draw inspiration from their heritage. In this interview, we get into his journey, the challenges that come with preserving history, and his vision for the future. Read on and join us as we explore the remarkable work being done to keep the legacy of Igbo people alive.
Oma: Onyeka, thank you for indulging me. I am a fan of the work you are doing with Igbo Archives. Can you share your journey with us and tell us about Igbo Archives, what led you to start this documentation project?
Onyeka Nwokike: Thank you for having me, Oma. The creation of Igbo Archives was driven by a need to address the growing ignorance among the Igbo people about their own culture—a culture that has been twisted and often demonized, not just by colonisers, but by our own, due to a lack of knowledge. This misrepresentation is rampant in Nollywood, where the portrayal of Igbo culture is skewed. As a director’s son, I’ve witnessed firsthand how our traditions are depicted in a negative light, with Christian characters often shown in a positive light while traditional worshippers are vilified, and how our art, architecture, fashion, and history are always misrepresented.
But not just the film industry. The Nigerian government’s failure to incorporate our history into the primary and secondary education system has left a void, where many Nigerians grow up without an understanding of their cultural heritage. It’s a disservice that contributes to a form of mental slavery, where people undervalue themselves and their history.
The journey of Igbo Archives began as my personal mission to dispel these misconceptions. During my university days at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, where I studied Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering, I found myself constantly engaged in debates, defending our history and culture. But I realized that arguments alone weren’t enough; I needed a platform to reach more people.
The turning point was discovering a treasure trove of historical photographs in the British Museum, Jones Archive at Southern Illinois University, and other institutions, which were freely available for academic use. These photographs are a gateway to our past, yet they remain largely ignored, especially by those within Nigeria.
Igbo Archives is my response to this challenge. It’s a website where I curate old photographs from various museums and other online sources and use them as a catalyst to educate about Igbo history, culture, architecture, art, entertainment, fashion and so on. For example, a recent post featured a 1930 photograph of an Ikenga wood carver, which I used to educate viewers about this important cultural symbol.
Recognizing that I am not a professional historian or blogger, I make sure to include an “Explore Further” section in each post, offering book recommendations for readers who wish to expand their knowledge. Although Igbo Archives has only been operational for three months, the response has been incredibly positive, validating the necessity for such a platform.
So in creating Igbo Archives, I aim to correct the false narratives and inspire a reconnection with our roots, instilling pride in our Igbo identity. It’s a step towards freeing our minds from the shackles of ignorance and reclaiming the narrative of our history.
Oma: What are some key aspects of Igbo history that you believe are often overlooked or misunderstood in mainstream narratives?
Onyeka Nwokike: In mainstream narratives, there’s a tendency to overlook the democratic nature of Igbo society. We’ve always valued a system where the voice of every individual matters, and decisions are made collectively. Yet most people believe we were uncivilised. Also, our spiritual beliefs are often misunderstood as primitive or evil, when in fact, they’re a complex network of traditions that bind our social and moral fabric together.
Oma: What challenges have you encountered in your efforts to document and preserve historical records?
Onyeka Nwokike: Documenting Igbo history isn’t without its hurdles. For starters, we’re a people of oral tradition, so finding written records from before colonial times is tough. It’s like piecing together a puzzle without the picture on the box. Then there’s the issue of getting access to digital resources, which many folks back home don’t have. Finally, convincing people and institutions to share their archives can be a real challenge. They’ve got their reasons, sure, but it makes the job harder.
Oma: Can you discuss the significance of oral tradition in preserving Igbo history before written records became prevalent?
Onyeka Nwokike: Oral traditions have always been the heartbeat of Igbo history, carrying the essence of our culture across generations. But it’s a sad truth that this heartbeat is fading. When I was a kid, folktales were a nightly ritual, a communal treasure that everyone cherished. Now, it seems these stories are slipping through our fingers, with the younger generation more disconnected from these oral heirlooms than ever before. It’s a part of our heritage that’s at risk of being lost in the noise of modern life, where screens often replace the warmth of a storyteller’s voice.
In my work, I’ve seen how the disinterest in oral traditions reflects a broader disconnection from our history. That’s why it’s so important to document and preserve what’s left of these narratives.
Oma: How do you select which historical events or artifacts to prioritize for preservation?
Onyeka Nwokike: When it comes to selecting historical events or artifacts, I focus on their cultural significance and the impact they’ve had on our community. I look for pieces that tell a story of resilience, innovation, or tradition—elements that define the Igbo spirit. It’s also about what will resonate with the people today and what can inspire future generations. Sometimes, it’s the everyday items that give the most authentic look into our past, so I don’t overlook those. Ultimately, it’s a balance between what is historically important and what will keep our culture alive in the hearts of the Igbo people.
Oma: How did the arrival of European colonial powers impact Igbo communities and their historical trajectory?
Onyeka Nwokike: The arrival of European colonial powers had a profound and often disruptive impact on Igbo communities. Colonialism didn’t just redraw maps; it redefined the entire social and cultural fabric of our society. The Europeans imposed new political structures, economic systems, and religious beliefs that were alien to the Igbo way of life. This imposition often led to the erosion of traditional governance, the exploitation of resources, and a significant loss of autonomy. The introduction of Christianity, in particular, had a lasting effect on Igbo spirituality. As I mentioned in a post on Chi and Eke on my website, the missionaries conflated these separate deities into a singular entity, ‘Chineke,’ to align more closely with the Christian concept of a creator God. This kind of syncretism was common, as it served the colonial agenda of cultural assimilation and control.
Oma: In what ways do you believe preserving the past can inspire the future?
Onyeka Nwokike: Preserving the past is vital for inspiring the future because it provides a foundation upon which to build. Knowing where we come from informs our identity and guides our path forward. When we understand the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors, we gain a sense of purpose and direction. For the Igbo people, reconnecting with our pre-colonial history, spirituality, and values can empower us to redefine our identity on our own terms, free from the colonial narrative. It’s about taking control of our story and using it to inspire a future that honours our heritage while forging new paths. So by preserving our past, we ensure that future generations have the roots to grow and the wings to soar.
Oma: What role do you see technology playing in the future of documentation and preservation efforts?
Onyeka Nwokike: Technology is a game-changer for documentation and preservation. It’s making it easier to digitize records, share information globally, and even recreate lost artifacts through 3D printing. With advancements in AI and machine learning, we can analyze vast amounts of data to uncover patterns and stories that might have been missed. I see technology not just preserving the past but bringing it to life for future generations.
Oma: Are there any particular historical figures or events from pre-colonial Igbo history that you find particularly fascinating or important to highlight?
Onyeka Nwokike: There are so many, but figures I particularly find fascinating is The Nri-Igbo founders, credited with establishing most of Igbo cultural foundations, they established a unique system of influence based on religious authority rather than military might. Also, unlike many neighbouring societies, the Igbo traditionally lacked centralized kingdoms. Instead, power resided in village assemblies and titled individuals who earned respect through merit, not heredity. I particularly liked events like the Igbo-Ukwu archaeological discoveries because they reveal a level of sophistication and artistry that challenges the narrative of a history-less people.
Oma: Are there any specific preservation techniques or methodologies you advocate for?
Onyeka Nwokike: I’m a big advocate for both high-tech and low-tech preservation. Digitization is key, but so is training people in the traditional methods of preservation. It’s about combining the old and the new to protect our heritage.
Oma: In what ways does an understanding of pre-colonial Igbo history inform our understanding of contemporary Igbo culture and identity?
Onyeka Nwokike: Understanding pre-colonial Igbo history sheds light on our resilience and ingenuity. It helps contemporary Igbos connect with the values and principles that shaped our ancestors’ lives, which, in turn, can influence our current cultural expressions and identity.
Oma: How do you intend to collaborate with other organizations or individuals in your preservation efforts?
Onyeka Nwokike: As for collaboration, I don’t have any immediate plans to seek out partnerships. My focus is on building Igbo Archives and ensuring it serves its purpose effectively. However, I’m certainly open to the possibility of working with other organizations or individuals in the future. If an opportunity presents itself that aligns with the mission of Igbo Archives and can enhance our efforts to preserve and document our history, I would be more than willing to consider it. It’s all about the right fit and the right time.
Oma: I noticed the “Ask Igbo Archives AI” (tool) tab on the Igbo Archives website that allows visitors to ask questions. What role do you think Artificial Intelligence will play in documenting or catering to Indigenous histories?
Onyeka Nwokike: Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential in documenting and catering to Indigenous histories. It can assist in the digitization of records, analysis of linguistic patterns, and even in the preservation of oral traditions. AI has the capability to process and analyze large datasets, which can be particularly useful in uncovering historical trends and connections that might not be immediately apparent. Moreover, AI can help in creating interactive platforms that make history more accessible to the public, allowing for a deeper engagement with cultural heritage.
About the “Ask Igbo Archives AI” on my website, it’s just an AI tool powered by Jetpack, designed to understand the content of the website thoroughly. When visitors ask questions, the tool responds with information based on what’s already available on Igbo Archives. It’s a way to provide immediate, on-demand access to the content of the site, though it’s important to remember that the AI’s knowledge is confined to the information it has been trained on. It doesn’t create new knowledge but makes existing knowledge more accessible.
Oma: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring historians or preservationists looking to make a difference in the field?
Onyeka Nwokike: While I’m not a historian or preservationist by profession, my journey with Igbo Archives has taught me the value of passion in this field. For those aspiring to make a difference, my advice is to let your passion guide you. Dive into the stories that move you, and let them fuel your dedication. Research diligently, document meticulously, and share your findings generously. Remember, every piece of history you save from oblivion is a victory for our collective memory.
Oma: Thank you so much for your time. Very much appreciated, we are rooting for your success. Tell us where readers can find you and check out your project.
Onyeka Nwokike: Thank you for the support, Oma. Readers can connect with me on Facebook under the name Onyeka Nwokike and on Twitter. For updates and insights from Igbo Archives, follow our Igbo Archives page on Facebook, on Instagram at, and on Twitter at @IgboArchives. Your engagement means the world to us.
We hope this interview has provided you with a deeper understanding of the Igbo Archives project and its role in preserving the history and culture of the Igbo people.
Special thanks to Oma’s Garden for conducting this interview and to all those who continue to support and engage with Igbo Archives.
