Eze Aro Unveils Vision for Mary Slessor Library, Dedicates Section to Arochukwu Historical Artefacts

At the launch of the Mary Slessor Library in Amannagwu, Arochukwu, His Eminence Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji stated that a section of the library will be dedicated to the Committee on Historical and Cultural Development of Arochukwu, which is chaired by Professor Okoro Ijoma, to preserve the historical artefacts excavated from three compounds in Ugwuakuma by archaeologist Osinachi Nwosu and his team. This is to provide evidence of wealth, social status, trade activities, and household participation during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and legitimate trade periods.

This followed the presentation of artefacts such as brass items, pot sherds, beads, smoking pipes, gun flints, small pots and lids with brass inside, ceramic lamps, china ware, ceramic hollow cups and bottles, kerosene lanterns, brass cylinders, brass bracelets, full gin bottles, and numerous other items found in the three compounds, showcasing the historical heritage of the Arochukwu Kingdom.

His Eminence Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji stated that the unveiling of the Mary Slessor Library project was made possible through the generosity of Dr Mrs Nwanganga Shields, whom he appreciated for providing the funds to establish the library. He assured everyone that, with the help of God, the library would be completely equipped by December 2026. He also appreciated the women of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, which was established through the missionary work of Mary Slessor, for coming out in large numbers to support the project.

“What we want is for the library to be equipped with computers, solar panels, internet facilities, and to become an e-library. This is what remains. When you look at it, you will see that we have very little left to complete the building of this library. The ‘Arochukwu Innovation Hall’ will be built on the extension, and it will help our children acquire skills in artificial intelligence and digital innovation and compete in the emerging AI world. Just as the library is important, digital skills are equally important for our children. We are saying this because we still have a lot of work to do, and we have only one year to complete it. We do not want this to become an abandoned project. We are looking forward to commissioning it during next year’s coronation anniversary.”

He called on the Church to continue praying for the project so that it would be completed within the estimated timeframe.

In his presentation, the team leader and archaeologist, Osinachi Nwosu, stated that the research was conducted in 10 compounds in Ugwuakuma Village, with excavations carried out in three compounds: Nde Uvu, Obichie Nde Okah, and Nde Alicho, which were chosen after the preliminary research. He explained that 30 materials of varying density and diversity were recovered, including brass, beads, metallic cups, brass bracelets, pot sherds, ceramic hollow glass, ceramic lamps, gun flints, smoking pipes, ritual vessels, bones, and numerous other artefacts.

He explained that the findings reveal the historical trade, commerce, and relationships that the people of the Arochukwu Kingdom had with colonialists and people from other kingdoms.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Barrister Uche Uba Okoro, lauded the Church for its spiritual support and the community for turning out in large numbers to celebrate the activities marking the Second Coronation Anniversary of His Eminence Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji. He noted that the second day’s event was aimed at ensuring that the Mary Slessor Library project continues uninterrupted until its completion.

“We all know that the library is not an unplanned project but a well-planned one, so we should encourage His Eminence in this initiative. What I have gained through education is something nothing else could have prepared me for. This is why I applaud His Eminence and also solicit the support of everyone to ensure that this structure is completed.”

Speaking at the event, Eze Ibom Isii, HRH, Mazi Amos Okoro, stated that Mary Slessor was a great woman who helped stop the killing of twins and brought the light of Christianity to the people. He prayed that the community would continue to progress through its renewed developmental strides.

Mazi Professor Dr Okoro Ijoma, Chairman of the Body of Patrons, representing Nzuko Aro Worldwide, said that any community that desires progress must have a library because it embodies the history of the community, not only for the present generation but also for generations yet unborn. He called on the people to support the project, which would help move the community forward.

Ndi Eze Ogo and the community prayed for God to bless His Eminence Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji stated that the community never expected a library and that the project signifies that the Monarch has the people of the Arochukwu Kingdom at heart. He also expressed confidence that the project would stand the test of time.

The highlight of the event was the viewing of the artefacts excavated from the three compounds in Ugwuakuma village.

Mazi Udo Chijioke, President General of Okennachi Kindred; Ugwuaro Ike Onu; Mazi Francis Okoro; Mazi Okey Imuoh; Chairlady of Nzuko Aro Home Branch, Mrs Nkemakolam; members of the Nzuko Aro Women’s Wing; women of the Presbyterian Church; and many others were present at the event.