There has been a general outcry over the Igbo values and personality over the year following the negative conduct and behaviours of some Igbos all over the world, particularly with materialistic tendencies and self-centeredness. This value system and personality change was attributed to the negative impact of Eurocentric concept which places more importance on individualism over community interest.
The original Igbo values and personality are centred on communal values, (Umunna nna bu ike), God (Chukwu Okike) who superintends over the affairs of the community and individuals, and personal conscience which governs the sense of moral right and wrong.
The positive values and personalities of Ndigbo include:
Transparency and Character: Igbo men are naturally endowed with and exhibit proven character and transparency in their dealings with others. This is derived from the Igbo belief that “ezi aha ka ego”.
Self-Esteem and Self-Belief: Ndigbo strongly posses self-esteem and self-belief and are conscious to ensure to that they are successful in whatever they are doing and always expires to achieve the best. Ndigbo are strongly self-reliance in their ability to achieve their goal in life and believes that they are unstoppable
Dedication to Duty: Igbo people are known to be highly dedicated to duty and are driven by the desire to be great achievers in whatever field of endeavour they find themselves.
Rectitude: Igbos are trained and cultured to be diligent and to do things in a universally accepted way and has a high sense of standards of outcomes.
Ambition: Igbos are highly ambitious and does not settle for less in every aspect of life.
Perseverance and resilience: Ndigbo have the inept ability to persevere through tough times. They are resilient and will survive life struggle, no matter where and how long because they belief in “onye kwe, Chi ya ekwe”.
Self-Control: An average Igbo man is full of self-control and is always consciousness to respect and avoid any act that bring shame and disgrace to him and his family.
Bravery: Igbo people are naturally self defence conscious and desire to conquer his fears, Challenges and enemies. They are encouraged by the Igbo adage “mberede nyiri dike, mana mberede k’eji ama dike” meaning.
Hard Working: Igbo belief in the dignity of labour and that they are the architect of their own destiny. They are determined and known to work hard for their success
However, there some vices that Ndigbo need to correct. Some of these include:
Disregard and Disrespect to Elders- There is currently more regard and respect for material wealth and people no respect the “wise” elders as before. This needs to change for the Igbo nation to move forward
Selfishness: Igbo are becoming more thinking of satisfying themselves and less of others in his community. That is why political leaders in Igboland have not been able to support and/or deliver communal development initiatives that were the bedrock of Igboland development.
Arrogance: Most Igbo man of today presents themselves as very arrogant and finds it difficult to reckon with others. He sees himself as the king who takes care of the family and home needs.
