According to the Igbo tribe, it is one of the most gifted tribes in Nigeria, comprised of individuals with remarkable talents and a strong business acumen. Unfortunately, similar to the Yoruba tribe, the era of the slave trade in the 1800s saw many Igbo people transported to countries like the United States and Britain. Hundreds of years after the end of the slave trade, the descendants of these individuals came to be known as African Americans, with some also hailing from other African nations.
**Interestingly, after many years, some African Americans and other foreigners have made efforts to trace their roots back to Africa. Many have found significant success, discovering their connections to the Igbo people in Nigeria.
For instance, renowned American preacher Bishop T.D. Jakes of the Potter’s House revealed years ago that he traced his ancestry to the Igbos in Nigeria through DNA testing. Similarly, numerous Americans and foreigners from various countries have utilized DNA testing to uncover their lineage linked to the Igbos.
Below, we explore the instances when Americans and other foreigners traveled to Nigeria to trace their roots to the Igbos.
- American Contingent Visits Anambra (2012)
In 2012, a group of Americans traveled to Anambra State during the Eri festival, seeking their ancestral roots. During their visit, they passionately encouraged many Nigerian families in Anambra to conduct DNA tests to facilitate locating and connecting with their relatives.
2. American Contingent Visits Anambra (2020)
In 2020, a group of African Americans traveled to Anambra State in search of their ancestral roots. They visited locations such as Obu Gad in Aguleri, where they were welcomed at various African Igbo festivals. The group enjoyed entertaining experiences at Rojenny Stadium and the tourist village located in Oba near Onitsha in Anambra State.
3. Haitians Visit Enugu State (2022)
In January 2022, the executive governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, welcomed a delegation of Haitians led by Senator Moise Kean Charles. This delegation was on a homecoming mission to Enugu State. Reports indicated that the Haitians traced their roots to Igbo land and were in Enugu to partake in traditional Igbo naming and name adoption rituals.
