The Effect of Igbo Traditional Culture on the Mental Health of Igbo Women
Obiora Dominica Nkemdirim — Registered Nurse/Midwife & Public Health Nursing, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
2026 Conference
The 23rd Annual International Conference of the Igbo Studies Association (ISA)
Dates
May 14–16, 2026
Venue
Dominican University, River Forest, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Conference chair
Uchenna Onuzulike, PhD
About the conference
#ISAChicago2026
Theme: Ọsọ Ndụ Agwụ Ike: Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future
Format: Hybrid (in-person & Zoom)
Conference archive
Published abstracts
Gender Inequality in Leadership Positions in Selected Nigerian South-East Public Universities: Implications for Human Development Security and Good Governance
Fidelia Amara Duru — Department of Sociology, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
Modern Stressors and Mental Health: Building Systems That Promote Resilience and Well-Being
Emmanuella Ngozi Umunnakwe — Biochemist, Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
Challenging Patriarchy and Women’s Struggle for Emancipation: A Literary Perspective
Ebele Eucahria Okafor — Department of Linguistics, African & Asian Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
Resuscitating, Revitalizing and Re-Establishing the Diminishing the Traditional Igbo Food Cultures
Sabbas Asoegwu — Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria · Nwakuba, Nnaemeka R. — Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Language and technology: Incorporating English Paediatric Medical Terms into the Igbo Language
Helen Chijiago Echebima — Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria · Mary Chinturu Adindu — Department of English and Literature, Abia State University, Uturu
Ritual Art Works of Africa as Defense Mechanism Against Enslavement
Baldwin Chika Anyasodo — Fine and Applied Arts Department, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri
The Coscharis Model and Local Rice Production in Anambra State
Cosmas Onyekachi Agubueze — Department of History and International Studies, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
Re: Accent Adaptation and Migrant Integration: A Linguistic and Social Perspective in Igbo Land
Queen Esther Chioma Eneremadu — Department of English Language and Literature, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education
Household Financial Sustainability through Continuous Income Regeneration: Evidence from Rural Entrepreneurs in Nigeria
Gilbert Ogechukwu Nworie — Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, Faculty of Management Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria · Nworie, Joseph Ogonna — Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, Faculty of Management Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
Ịmụta asụsụ Igbo, ịmụta ụwa Igbo: Researching Igbo spatial poetics through a diasporic epistemology of repair
Victoria Ogoegbunam Okoye, PhD — School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh
We Dance Before Our Feet Touch the Earth: Defining Otubere (Detachment) Theory, and Play (Egwu) in Africanized Dance /Movement Therapy (ADMT)
Gladys Ijeoma Akunna — Independent Researcher, Philadelphia, PA, USA
“White Igbos”: Reflections on the Anyali, History and Culture of Difference in an African Society
Kingsley C. Ezeuwa — Marquette University
Igbo Healthcare, Mental Health and Wellbeing
Egwunwoke Chibueze Obi — Ladder Press Nigeria Limited, Ogba Ikeja, Lagos
Tending to Umi Okpukpu as an Igbo Diasporic Literary Architecture
Erondu, Chinyere — Independent Researcher Washington, DC, USA
Ọsọ Ndu Agwụ Ike: Reintegration, Survival, and the Igbo Philosophy of Second Chances
Ferdinand, Joy Amaka — School of Criminal Justice and Criminology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, AK, USA
The Role of Ebonyi State Government in Combating the COVID-19 Pandemic
Mbele, Sunday H. — Institute of Public Health, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Art and Architecture in Introspection: Visual Reinterpretation of Igbo Totems as Enhancement in Aesthetics of Functionality in Creative and Build Industry
Chibuenyi G. Nwala — Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State · Eguzouwa, Chinemerem U. — Department of Architectural Technology Dr. Ogbnonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba
Artificial Intelligence Meets Igbo Ingenuity: Using Technology to Preserve Indigenous Knowledge Systems
Joy Nkiruka Okeke — Department of Linguistics/Igbo Language, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam · Nkeonyere Sylvia Chukwudi — Department of Linguistics/Igbo Language, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam
February 23, 2026 · 3:17 PM
Bells, Blacksmiths and Igbo-Ukwu: 50 years tracking Igbo Artistic Traditions
Nancy Neaher Maas — Independent Scholar, Frisco, TX, USA
February 23, 2026 · 3:19 PM
Language as an Instrument for Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future Among the Igbo
Patience Nonye Edeoga — Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
February 23, 2026 · 3:21 PM
The Loom of Continuity: Weaving Igbo Heritage into Eco-Resilient Futures
Calista Oduchukwu Nwosu — Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
February 23, 2026 · 3:22 PM
Ọsọndụ Agwụ Ike: Ntule Abọnaabọ dịka O siri metụta Asụsụ na Omenala Igbo
Chiamaka Ngozi Oyeka — Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria · Chigozie Bright Nnabuihe — Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
February 23, 2026 · 3:24 PM
Oso Ndu Agwu Ike and The Igbo Experience in Nigeria: Quest for A Sustainable Future
Peace-Val Chinomnso Eze — Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
February 23, 2026 · 3:26 PM
Igbo Music and the Algorithmic Turn: Social Media, Cultural Authority, Diaspora, and Digital Media
Ugochukwu Emmanuel Azumma — New Layout Institute, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
February 24, 2026 · 11:33 PM
Reading Azodo Linguistically: Corpus, Criticism, and African Literary Discourse
Chidi Igwe — University of Regina
May 4, 2026 · 7:31 PM
Igbo Ebinie: O Bughi Igbo Adaa (Igbo Rising, not Igbo Landing)
Onwubiko Agozino — Okankuzi Sosholoji na Omumu Afrika, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
May 14, 2026 · 2:23 AM
From Oral Wisdom to Global Goals: Igbo Proverbs as Indigenous Frameworks for Sustainability and Resilience
Adaora Lois Anyachebelu — Department of African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos
May 14, 2026 · 3:20 PM
Tales From the Dumpsite: Nigerian Women Waste Pickers’ Narratives of Resilience and Resistance
Adaobi Muo — Directorate of General Studies, National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), Aba, Abia State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 3:22 PM
When Sounds Learn to Travel: Igbo Music, Media, and Cultural Survival
Uche JohnMark Nwaneri — Independent Researcher, Jakarta, Indonesia
May 14, 2026 · 3:28 PM
Gendered Visions of History and Ecological Sustainability: A Comparative Analysis of Achebe and Adimora-Ezeigbo
Mary J. N. Okolie — Department of English and Literary Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 3:41 PM
The Depiction of Women in Igbo Proverbs: Far from the “Negative” Crowd
Ujubonu J. Okide — Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 4:20 PM
Oso Ndu Agwuike: The Principle of Igbo Resilience and Survival
John Okwudiri Obineche — Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 4:34 PM
Igbo Fatherhood and peace building in the family: A Study of Nkamigbo’s Play ‘Agha Di’
Ihechi Nkoro — Department of Foreign Language and Translation Studies, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 4:35 PM
Reimagining Language for Global Tech: Igbo Language Adaptation and Innovation in the Digital Age
Gloria Ukamaka Amadi — Department of English Language and Literature, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 4:37 PM
Ọsọ Ndụ Agwụ Ike: Reimagining Igbo Cultural Resilience in a Digitalized World
Ifeyinwa Cordelia Isidienu — Department of Igbo, African and Communication Studies, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria · Anthonia C. Ephraim-Chukwu — Department Of Igbo, Africa and Communication Studies, Faculty of Arts, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
May 14, 2026 · 4:41 PM
The Ada in the Age of Nollywood: Leadership, Culture, and Representation in Lionheart (2018)
Chinaza Munonye — Independent Scholar, Frederick, MD, USA · Uchenna Onuzulike — Department of Communications, Bowie State University, Bowie, MD, USA
May 14, 2026 · 6:43 PM
Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities in Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future in Igbo Cultural Milieu
Nkechinyere Nwokoye — Department of Igbo, African and Communication Studies, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka
May 14, 2026 · 7:24 PM
Social Media Influencers and Igbo Entrepreneurship: Narratives of Hustle, Resilience, and Digital Survival
Ozioma Iwuh — Independent Researcher, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 7:31 PM
The Origins and Cultural Significance of Music: A Case Study of Mike Ejeagha
Uchechukwu Kelvin Okoro — Igbo Gospel Music Ministers Association (IGMMA), Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 7:34 PM
The Need for Infrastructural and Environmental Sustainability in Southern Nigeria: An Appraisal Abstract
Nneka Umejiaku — Faculty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka · Alokwu Cyprian Obiora — Department of Religion, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 7:37 PM
Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Social Change
Arinzechukwu Victor Anyanwu — Department of Geology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
May 14, 2026 · 7:44 PM
The Ụtụtụ Ọma Controversy: Karịama Ehi M Ga-Agbanarị M, Ka M Gbubiri Ya Ọdụ Sie Ngwọngwọ!
Obiajụlụ Emejulu — Directorate of General Studies, Federal University of Technology, Imo State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 7:47 PM
By Hook or By Crook: Leveraging English-Igbo Scaffolding for Early Igbo Language Acquisition in Young Children
Dozie Chinomso Patricia — Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State Nigeria · Chimakpam Ugonna — University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria; Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust, Doncaster, UK
May 14, 2026 · 9:32 PM
Economic Development and Sustainability
Obiora Miracle — Project Manager, Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:35 PM
Crime, Kidnapping, and Jungle Justice
Valentine Chiagorom Opara — Entrepreneur and Security Consultant, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:39 PM
Enduring The Storm: Igbo Resilience During and After the Nigerian Civil War
Obilor Victor Chigozirim — Oblitz Exquisite Properties, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:41 PM
Music as Cultural Expression in Igbo Society: Tradition, Identity, and Continuity
Chidera Emmanuel Anthony — Department of Animal Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:44 PM
Politics, Leadership, Security, and Government in Igbo Land (2005-2025)
Chidi Ejikeme Osuagwu — Centre for Igbo studies (CIS), Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:51 PM
Gender Inequality in Leadership Positions in Selected Nigerian South-East Public Universities: Implications
Fidelia Amara Duru — Department of Sociology, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:53 PM
Economic Development, Sustainability and the Igbo Ethnic Group
Kalu Eme Kalu — Independent Researcher, Hedzranawoe Lome, Togo
May 14, 2026 · 9:55 PM
Family Relevance in Igbo Society
Uche Chinecherem Joyce — Independent Researcher, Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 14, 2026 · 9:58 PM
Igbo Struggle for Survival: Textual and Contextual Discourse
Ifeoma Nwosu-Okoli — Department of English and Literary Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Imo/Abia
Ofo na Ogu: The Cardinal Principle Guiding the Igbo Traditional Justice System, Norms and Values
Rosemary Akpan — Department of History, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA · Ononiwu A. Oparah — Department of History & International Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
From Uche to Ako na Uche: A Framework for Growth, Reasoning, and Wisdom in Igbo Thought
Ogochukwu Egbe — Independent Researcher, Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Imo/Abia
Omekanwanyị: Examining Softness, Effeminacy, and the Making of a Man
Chimeremeze Nwafọ — Independent Writer, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Imo/Abia
Reading Chinua Achebe’s Arrow of God as Igbo Speculative Fiction
Ada Uzoamaka Azodo — Indiana University Northwest, Gary
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Imo/Abia
When the Ancestors Speak: Igbo Literary Wisdom and Resilience
Chinasa Ekeoma — OgbonnayaOnu Polytechnic, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria · Jane Nkechi Onuoha — Every Living Soul Church, Akesan, Lagos State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Imo/Abia
Marriage as a Contested Moral Space: Tradition, Modernity, and Social Change in Igbo Society
Maria Ukamaka Umenyili — Independent Researcher, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
Eco-Cosmology: Environmental Symbolism and Sustainability in Igbo Masking Tradition
John Kelechi Opara, Ph.D. — Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
African Naturalism and Igbo Civilizational Science: Cosmological Foundations, Epistemological Architecture and Forensic Civilizational Action Framework
Chidi G. Osuagwu — Department of Biomedical Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
Ònyéàyànà and the Foundations of Resilience: Recovering an Original Igbo Ethico-Ontological Principle and Its Contribution to Global Philosophy
Jude Dunkwu — CODE Fellow, The Centre for Online and Distance Education, University of London
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
Land as Epistemology: Indigenous Knowledge and More-Than-Human Relations in Igbo and Diné (Navajo)Thought
Iroegbu, Oke — Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance, University of California, Los Angeles
May 15, 2026 · 9:30 PM
Enugu/Ebonyi
Surviving War, the Educated Igbo Wo/Man, and Changing Gender Roles in Chimamanda Adichie’s War Novel
Ogbu Chukwuka Nwachukwu — Department of English and Literary Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 11:00 PM
Anambra/Delta
Family Growth and Continuity, in Akpan Egbuna’s The African Widow and Dupe Olorunjo’s Tailed
Chinwendu A. Nwizu — Department of English Language & Literature, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
May 15, 2026 · 11:00 PM
Anambra/Delta
Digital Identity and Morphological Productivity in the Igbo Language: Situating African Identity in a Technological Age
Felista Chidi Akidi — Igbo Unit, Directorate of General Studies, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State · Goodnews Chinasa Ihezuonu — Department of Languages, Linguistics Unit, University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State
May 16, 2026 · 11:30 PM
Challenges And Prospects of Igbo Language Use in Digital Technology
Chinyere Benedicta Onyemaechi — Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri · Chioma Rosemary Ayozie — Directorate of General Studies, Federal University of Technology, Owerri
May 16, 2026 · 11:32 PM