The need to promote and protect the rich cultural heritage of Ndi-Igbo, has been cited as the reason for forming the Council of Igbo Chiefs and Traditional Rulers in the United States of America (USA).

Visiting president of the Council, Chief Sam Nwankwo who stated this in an interview with Daily Champion on Monday, said the Council was also commited to instilling Igbo culture and tradition in children of Igbo extraction in diaspora.

Mwankwo who is also the president of Abia State National Association of North America,USA, condemned those who erroneously parade themselves as title holders, pointing out that such actions belittled the highly revered, culture and tradition of Ndi Igbo.He vowed on behalf of the Council, to continue to discourage non title holders from parading themselves as such.

He said,"the Council of Chiefs and Traditional Rulers was formed to promote and protect the culture and tradition of our people. We are also out to check its denigration.

"It is uniquely positioned to initiate actions towards educating our children and others on Igbo culture. Furthermore, it is our aim, to use the Council as a platform, to let people know what Eze ,Ichie, Igwe, Nze and Chief represent and what it takes to be one".

Noting that most children being reared in such complex and industrialized western societies, were not in touch with realities at home, Nwankwo posited that the least they as parents and guardians could do, was to try as much as possible, to present a replica of the customs, culture and tradition of Ndi Igbo for them and the Americans.

He charged all properly conferred title holders, to join hands with the Council in its efforts to build and promote the culture of Ndi Igbo at home and in diaspora.

On the activities of Abia National Association of North America, Nwankwo said the group was formed to promote charitable, economic and socio-political causes and well-being for all Abia indigenes everywhere.

He said " the main objectives of Abia National Association of North America, are to foster brotherhood, unity, mutual respect and cooperation amongst Ndi Abia in particular and Ndi Igbo in general".

Nwankwo disclosed that the group was mobilizing support to complement government's efforts in the provision of basic amenities including potable water, healthcare services and learning equipment for schools.