Community unveils Mary Slessor Library, plans Ekubo film village

The people of Arochukwu kingdom have officially unveiled the Mary Slessor Library in Amannagwu, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, marking a significant cultural and educational milestone. The library was constructed in honor of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary renowned for her contributions to Christian missionary work in Africa, advocacy for women's rights, and efforts to stop the killing of twins. The unveiling ceremony coincided with the second coronation anniversary of the traditional ruler, His Eminence, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, underscoring the symbolic importance of the event. The library, which forms part of a broader initiative celebrating the Eze’s coronation, was made possible through the generous donation of Dr. Nwanganga Shields. During the event, Eze Oji highlighted that a portion of the library will be dedicated to preserving historical artefacts unearthed in Ugwuakuma Village. These items, recovered by archaeologist Osinachi Nwosu and his team, include brass wares, beads, pot sherds, smoking pipes, gun flints, ceramic lamps, china ware, kerosene lanterns, and other materials. The collection reflects the rich heritage and trade connections of the Arochukwu Kingdom, particularly during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and legitimate trade periods. Eze Oji emphasized that the library will be fully equipped by December 2026, featuring computers, solar panels, and internet access to transform it into a functional e-library. Additionally, he announced the construction of an ‘Arochukwu Innovation Hall,’ an extension of the library designed to provide young people with training in artificial intelligence and digital innovation. This initiative aims to ensure the library remains active and relevant, aligning with modern technological advancements. The traditional ruler also expressed gratitude to the Women of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria for their support, noting that the church itself was founded through the missionary work of Mary Slessor. Furthermore, he revealed plans to establish a Film Village in Arochukwu in memory of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo. The film village will not only honor Ekubo’s legacy but also function as a training ground for emerging talent in the entertainment industry. Eze Oji stated that Ekubo’s life serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how individuals can make lasting impacts through exemplary conduct. Archaeologist Osinachi Nwosu explained that excavations took place in three compounds, Nde Uvu, Obichie Nde Okah, and Nde Alicho, out of ten surveyed in Ugwuakuma village. The findings included 30 materials of varying density, offering insights into the historical trade and commercial interactions of the Arochukwu Kingdom with colonial powers and neighboring kingdoms. The discoveries underscore the region’s role in regional and international commerce. The chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Uche Okoro, praised the library as a well-planned project and encouraged continued community involvement to ensure its successful completion. Similarly, Prof. Okoro Ijoma, chairman of the Nzuko Aro Body of Patrons, stressed the importance of libraries in safeguarding a community’s history for both current and future generations. The event concluded with a public viewing of the excavated artefacts, drawing attention to the tangible connection between past and present. As the community looks ahead, the Mary Slessor Library stands as a testament to cultural preservation, educational advancement, and the enduring influence of historical figures like Mary Slessor and Alexx Ekubo.