Prof Emmanuel Nwanolue Emenanjọ (1943–2016)

Professor Emmanuel Nwanolue Emenanjọ, fondly known as E. Nolue Emenanjo, was a trailblazing Nigerian linguist, scholar, and cultural icon whose lifelong work transformed the study and preservation of the Igbo language. Born on April 21, 1943, and passing on September 2, 2016, his legacy spans decades of scholarship, advocacy, and institutional leadership in African linguistics.

Often hailed as one of the “fathers of modern Igbo literature,” alongside the likes of Tony Ubesie, Emenanjọ’s contribution to language development, particularly the structural study and revitalization of Igbo, has left an indelible mark on African linguistic thought.

Early Life and Education

Born in Daudawa, Katsina State, to Igbo parents, Emenanjọ’s childhood unfolded in a post-colonial Nigeria deeply rooted in cultural transitions. He hailed from Umueze Igbuzo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State, and his formative years were shaped by the rich traditions of the Igbo people.

He began his education at St. Ann’s Catholic School, Burutu (1949–1955), followed by studies at St. Anthony’s College, Ubulu-Ukwu (1956–1960) and Holy Ghost College, Owerri (1961–1962). Excelling in English, Literature, and the Igbo language, he was recognized early on for his academic brilliance and cultural sensitivity.

Emenanjọ earned his B.A. in Linguistics from the University of Ibadan in the early 1970s, followed by an M.A. in Linguistics, where he delved into sociolinguistics and dialectology. In 1981, he completed his Ph.D. in Linguistics and African Languages, exploring how language influences identity and development in post-colonial societies.

Academic and Professional Career

Professor Emenanjọ held several influential academic and administrative roles:

• University of Ibadan (1966–1972): Education Officer and Junior Research Fellow in Linguistics.
• Oxford University Press (1972–1975): Academic Editor, Nigerian Languages.
• Alvan Ikoku College of Education (1975–1978): Senior Lecturer in Igbo Linguistics.
• University of Port Harcourt (1983–2003): Professor of Linguistics, Head of Department, and Dean of Humanities.
• Warri College of Education (1990–1992): Provost, overseeing education reform in Delta State.
• National Institute for Nigerian Languages, Aba (1992–2003): Executive Director, promoting indigenous languages across Nigeria.

Writing Style and Scholarly Vision

Scholarly Precision

Emenanjọ’s works, including the landmark A Grammar of Contemporary Igbo, reflect his analytical mastery and dedication to theoretical and practical linguistics. He combined deep structural insights with real-world language application, ensuring that his research was both academically sound and socially relevant.

Cultural Advocacy

He championed the elevation of African languages to equal standing with European ones, promoting their use in education, media, governance, and everyday communication. His writings often served as manifestos for language empowerment in post-colonial Africa.

Pedagogical Approach

As an educator, Emenanjọ was clear, methodical, and passionate. His lectures inspired generations of students to appreciate the beauty, structure, and relevance of African languages, particularly Igbo.

Literary Works

Major Publications

• Igbo Language and Culture (1973)
• Elements of Modern Igbo Grammar (1978)
• Auxiliaries in Igbo Syntax (1985)
• Multilingualism, Minority Languages, and Language Policy in Nigeria (1990)
• Linguistics, Language, and the Nation (1988)
• A Grammar of Contemporary Igbo (2015)

In Igbo Language

• Atụmatụ Agụmagụ Na Atụmatụ Okwū (1989)
• Igbo Maka Junịọ Sekọndịrị 3 (1987)
• Ǹkèḿákọ̄láḿ – Akwụkwọ Abụ Igbo (Poetry)

Co-authored Works

• Igbo Maka Sinịọ Sekọndịrị 3 (with Okolie, Ekwe – 1988)
• Igbò Ekèlee (1990)
• Language Endangerment and Language Empowerment in Nigeria (1999)

Awards and Recognition

• Knight of St. John International – Honoring his life of service and moral leadership.
• Edeogu of Ibusa – A revered chieftaincy title reflecting his cultural leadership.
• Nigerian National Honours (Posthumous) – Recognizing his academic and cultural legacy.
• International Linguistic Fellowships & Honors – Widely respected in global academic circles for his pioneering work on African linguistics.

Personal Life

Professor Emenanjọ married Florence Nwamaka Nwulia in December 1970, and they had seven children, including their eldest daughter Ogbeianu Angelina Emenanjọ. He was a deeply spiritual man, a devout Catholic, and a committed Knight of St. John International.

He was also an active community leader in Ibusa, where he received the title Edeogu, participating in local cultural, religious, and educational initiatives aimed at uplifting the Igbo people.

Legacy

Professor E. Nolue Emenanjọ’s legacy is both profound and far-reaching. He redefined African linguistics, championed indigenous language preservation, and laid the intellectual foundation for the continued study of Igbo and other Nigerian languages.

To this day, his work inspires scholars, educators, and cultural advocates across the continent. His belief that “language is culture, and culture is identity” remains a rallying cry for linguistic and cultural empowerment in Africa.

Death

Professor Emmanuel Nwanolue Emenanjọ passed away on September 2, 2016, at the age of 73. Though his voice is now silent, his words, teachings, and vision continue to speak powerfully to generations.

References

• Emenanjo, E.N. (1986). “The artist and his society: the situation in creative literature in Igbo”. Black Orpheus: A Journal of African and Afro-American Literature. 6 (1): 8–16. ISSN 0067-9100. OCLC 769353992.
• Emenanjo, E. Nọlue (2015). A Grammar of Contemporary Igbo : Constituents, Features and Processes. M and J Grand Orbit Communications. ISBN 978-978-54215-2-1. OCLC 952248187.
• Emenanjo, E. N; Ndimele, Ozo-Mekuri (1995). Issues in African Languages and Linguistics: Essays in Honour of Kay Williamson. National Institute for Nigerian Languages. ISBN 9789782494061. ISSN 1117-1812.
• “Identity crisis and the place of history”. Sun News. 20 May 2023. Archived from the original on 26 May 2023. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
• “A GRAMMAR OF CONTEMPORARY IGBO”. African Books Collective. 2015. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
• “Nigeria is a bookless country – Prof. Emenanjo”. Vanguard Nigeria. 7 July 2013. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
• “EMENANJO, Prof. (Chief) Emmanuel Nwanolue”. Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation. 25 January 2017. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
• “Onitsha, Enuanị, Nsukka, Owerri na olundị ndị ọzọ dị n’Igbo na njirimara ha”. BBC Igbo (in Igbo). 10 December 2021. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
• Ogu, Humphrey (9 April 2013). “Emenanjo Links Dev To Language, Culture At Valedictory Lecture”. University of Port Harcourt. Retrieved 14 February 2024.

Views: 11