AQUINO | Journal of Philosophy

WHAT IS IN A (SUR)NAME? IGBOS AND THE GRADUAL OBLITERATION OF THEIR IDENTITY: A CAUSE FOR CONCERN

2025-05-05T18:21:08+00:00

For the Igbo, globalization is one significant event that is considerably changing his/her values, culture, language, and practices. Time was when an Igbo could easily be identified by his cultural values and language. Today, the Igbo spirit of adaptation and adoption of the values and cultures of his/her place of birth and growth, education and residence, has been stretched to breaking point. The resultant effect is the evident loss of “some Igboness” of Igbos in diaspora and even Igbos at home in various states of Igbo land. It is the loss of ‘some Igboness’ that will lead to what we have described as the gradual obliteration of the Igbo identity. This is seen in the gradual but progressive penchant for change of Igbo ethnic surnames into foreign or Anglo-Saxon surnames. For instance, an Igbo formerly identified as ‘Okechukwu Okafo,’ accepts to be christened ‘John’ giving him the names – ‘John Okechukwu Okafo.’ When he becomes a parent, instead of bequeathing ‘Okafo’ as the surname to his children, he transmits to them ‘John.’ That makes the Igbo son born and christened ‘Michael’ to become identified as ‘Michael John.’ The new identification tag unfortunately deracinates him from his cultural heritage into Anglo-Saxon lineage of which he knows nothing about. This growing tendency poses a great danger to Igbo identity and calls for serious cause for concern. We investigated the new students in a faculty and found evidence of Igbo identity obliteration mostly by parental ignorance. Our approach is expository, educative and corrective.

THE DIGNITY OF LIFE IN THE LIGHT OF ALBERT SCHWEITZER’S PHILOSOPHY OF REVERENCE FOR LIFE

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

Albert Schweitzer’s philosophy of Reverence for Life presents a profound ethical ground centered on the dignity of all living beings. This principle, rooted in a deep sense of responsibility toward life, challenges anthropocentric worldviews and calls for an inclusive moral consideration of all forms of existence. Schweitzer’s ethical thought emerges from his conviction that life, in all its manifestations, possesses intrinsic value and deserves respect. His philosophy rejects utilitarian and purely rationalist approaches to ethics, advocating instead for an intuitive and compassionate engagement with the world. This paper employs Schweitzer’s Reverence for Life as a foundational concept for understanding human dignity within a broader ecological and ethical context. It examines how his philosophy extends the notion of dignity beyond human beings to encompass all living creatures, arguing for a universal ethic of care and responsibility. Furthermore, the study highlights Schweitzer’s critique of modern civilization’s disregard for life’s sanctity and the implications of his thought for contemporary discussions on bioethics, environmental ethics, and human rights. Emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life forms, Schweitzer’s philosophy challenges us to redefine ethical relationships in a way that fosters greater harmony and respect for life’s intrinsic worth. This paper thus contributes to the ongoing discourse on dignity by positioning Reverence for Life as a vital ethical principle that remains relevant in addressing contemporary moral and ecological challenges.

IS TRADITIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY ANDROCENTRIC? A QUESTION AND RESPONSE IN THE LIGHT OF JANE DURAN’S FEMINIST EPISTEMOLOGY

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

This study critically examines whether Traditional Epistemology is Androcentric in the Light of Jane Duran’s Feminist Epistemology. In her work, Toward a Feminist Epistemology (1991), Jane Duran appears to have weighed the entire Western Traditional Epistemology on an epistemic gender-neutral scale or gender-inclusive scale, and in her observation and judgment finds it wanting of the charge of androcentrism. Hence, she sets out with the task of liberating epistemology from the 'parochial shackle’ of androcentrism to a liberal and holistic feminist perspective through the framework of naturalized epistemology and more recent advances in the cognitive science, feminist theories and sociology of knowledge. The findings in this study reveals that Duran’s feminist epistemology is simultaneously a reaction against androcentrism which she claims is inherent in traditional epistemological theorizing and her investigation into the possibility of a way of knowing that pertains to women. After engaging in a ground clearing attempt to establish her case against the traditional analytic epistemology which in her judgment is both androcentric and apsychological, Duran proceeds to lay foundation for a feminist epistemology and the possibility of a gynocentric model. Adopting the method of critical analysis, this paper is particularly concerned with her labeling of traditional epistemology as ideologically androcentric upon which she proceeded to advocate for a feminist epistemology. This study objects to the claim by Duran that traditional epistemology is androcentric and argues that contrary to her position, the theoretical traits of epistemology which she dubbed androcentric are in fact the product of the nature of the activity of epistemology as majorly a normative discipline.

OCHICHI NCHIGBU AND SIT-TIGHTISM IN CONTEMPORARY LEADERSHIP IN AFRICA: A PHILOSOPHICAL INVESTIGATION

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

Leadership in post-colonial Africa has been saddled with lots of predicaments ranging from dictatorships, resentments, bad governance, banditry, kidnapping, extraordinary rendition, arrogance, bribery, apathetic corruption, abuse of office and fundamental human rights etc. African democracy in comparison with the West has experienced an unimaginable stay in power by her leaders. This is deeply worrisome. The frequency at which they hold grip to power has been a critical point of debate among scholars in Philosophy, comparative politics, diplomacy, and other fields of Humanities. Many scholars have wrestled, while many are still wrestling on ‘how and why’ many Africa dictators have continued to hold grip to power unceremoniously, against the wishes and aspirations of the people. There have been honest yearnings of people for leaders who can rise to the challenges of the time, leaders who can swim against the current, leaders of repute, leaders who can create the lasting change on Africa soil. To put this paper in proper perspective, this researcher examined the concept of Ochichi Nchigbu (dictatorship), and Sit-tightism as it affects contemporary leadership experience in Africa. Really, a sad fact for Africa and Africans!

CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF NONRECIPROCAL FRAMEWORKS IN GEOPOLITICAL SHIFTS AND THE PROSPECTS OF AFRICAN EXPORTS: THE CASE OF THE AFRICAN GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY ACT (AGOA)

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has played a crucial role in enhancing market access for sub-Saharan African (SSA) exports to the United States through a nonreciprocal trade framework. However, the shift toward a transactional trade model raises concerns about the future of African exports. This study examines the impact of AGOA’s expiration on SSA economies, particularly the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), using customs union theory and world-systems theory as analytical lenses. The research adopts an exploratory approach, analyzing trade data and policy trends to assess how reciprocal trade frameworks may shape export prospects. Findings indicate that while AGOA facilitated export diversification and job creation, its expiration exposes African economies to heightened competition, potential trade diversion, and structural vulnerabilities. The dominance of raw material exports over value-added goods remains a key challenge. Furthermore, inadequate infrastructure and limited industrial capacity hinder the ability of SSA countries to compete in a reciprocal trade system. To mitigate these risks, the study recommends strengthening regional trade agreements such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), enhancing value addition in exports, and negotiating favorable bilateral trade agreements. Additionally, investments in infrastructure and industrial development are critical to ensuring sustainable export growth. In conclusion, while AGOA’s expiration presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for African nations to redefine their trade strategies. By fostering regional integration and economic diversification, SSA countries can enhance their resilience in the evolving global trade landscape.

EPISTEMICIDE AND THE CHALLENGES OF DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA: RETHINKING KNOWLEDGE FOR PROGRESS

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The problem of underdevelopment is like a ghost haunting Africa. In fact, in the social sciences, many developmental frameworks have been adduced as cure-all prescriptions to solve the problem of underdevelopment in developing countries—especially in Africa—but to no avail. However, what is not contestable is the fact that, knowledge has a great implication in the development of any nation. This is predicated on the belief that knowledge serves as a basis for understanding reality. Hence, there is no gain saying that, if reality is erroneously judged and conceived, developmental projects would wrongly be interpreted and approached. The truth about many African nations is that their knowledge banks are suffering from colonialisis, which is a manifestation of effects of epistemicide. It is on this note that, this work employs the methods of hermeneutics and analysis to investigate how a given people’s corpus of knowledge determines the level of their development. Consequently, the work discovers among other things that the level of a people’s knowledge which informs their actions is the decider of which people are developed and which is undeveloped. Again, what a people hold to be true and real goes a long way into determining the path of development they will follow. Thus, the study recommended that for holistic development to be achieved in the developing world/countries there is the need to transform their worldview and liberate their thinking from the clutches of narrow mindedness and influences of Eurocentric ideologies orchestrated by epistemicide. As such, government policies must urgently prioritize the reclamation and revitalization of indigenous African knowledge systems to foster genuine and sustainable development.

“ENTERING THROUGH THE NARROW GATE” (MATT. 7:13): TOWARDS REINVIGORATING THE SPIRITUAL COMMITMENT OF THE NIGERIAN CATHOLIC KNIGHTS

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The universal call to holiness demands that one gains his/her salvation through one’s state of life. The state of life into which one finds himself/herself is naturally established through the family process that eventually culminates into the Church affiliation, and finally into the larger society. There are various states of life within the Catholic Church which is classified into the clergy, consecrated men and women and lay faithful. The clergy refers to the ordained ministers that exercise the ministerial priesthood. The lay faithful though they share in the common priesthood through baptism live out their Christian life in their various areas of work. Within the Catholic Church, they form statutory bodies like Catholic Women Organization, Catholic Men Organization, Catholic Youth Organization, and Holy Childhood Association; which are all enveloped in the Laity Council. There are other particular associations like the Catholic Knights and other sodalities that exist in the Church. This research is concerned with the Nigerian Catholic Knights who often times help in promoting the growth of the Church through their generous financial contributions in various church projects and more so, in carrying out charitable works. On the other hand there is need to get them reinvigorated in their spiritual commitment so that eloquent testimony to the faith with soar higher This ugly side of deficiency in proper witnessing often times stain the corporate image of the group. The research uses the qualitative methodology to sift out the causes of this lack of proper witnessing and ways of addressing it. The researcher makes some recommendations on ways of ensuring more spiritual commitment among the Catholic Knights in order to be more active promoters of the gospel message.

THE MEDIA, TRUTH AND THE ETHICS OF PUBLIC OPINION IN THE AGE OF PROPAGANDA

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The rapid growth of digital media and the proliferation of social platforms have radically transformed the landscape of public opinion, creating new challenges for the relationship between media, truth, and ethics. In the age of propaganda, the media’s role in shaping public perceptions is increasingly scrutinized as information is often manipulated or distorted to serve political, corporate, or ideological interests. This paper explores the complexities of media ethics in the contemporary information age, focusing on how propaganda and misinformation challenge the concept of truth in public discourse. The ethical responsibility of the media in maintaining truth, objectivity, and fairness while navigating the tension between freedom of speech and the potential harms of manipulated narratives is central to this discussion. By analyzing the role of media in shaping public opinion, the paper proposes strategies for promoting ethical journalism and protecting democratic integrity in the digital era.

NAVIGATING THE INTERSECTION OF CULTURAL NORMS AND FEMINIST IDEALS IN CHIMAMANDA ADICHIE’S ‘WE SHOULD ALL BE FEMINISTS’: LESSONS FOR NIGERIAN FEMINISTS

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The global movement of feminism has sought to challenge systemic gender inequalities and patriarchal structures. However, its application within specific cultural contexts remains a subject of critical discourse. Chimamanda Adichie’s We Should All Be Feminists has emerged as a significant text within contemporary African feminist thought, particularly in Nigeria, where traditional gender roles remain deeply embedded. This paper examines the intersection between cultural norms and feminist ideals, analyzing how Adichie’s arguments navigate the tensions between global feminist narratives and indigenous gender expectations. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as liberal feminism, intersectional feminism, and cultural relativism, the study explores how Adichie critiques gender discrimination in Nigeria while advocating for a localized approach to feminism. The analysis highlights key themes including gender socialization, economic empowerment, and the role of men in feminist advocacy. Furthermore, the study discusses the challenges faced by Nigerian feminists in adapting feminist principles within deeply patriarchal structures and religious traditions. Finally, the paper argues that while Adichie’s work aligns with global feminist ideals, it offers critical lessons for a culturally sensitive and context-specific feminist movement in Nigeria. The findings emphasize the need for an inclusive feminist framework that engages both local traditions and global discourses to promote gender equality effectively.

ENGAGING THE IDEA OF SUSTAINABLE WELL-BEING THROUGH THE IDEA OF RELATIONAL WELL-BEING

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The hypothesis that the work defends is that given the differences (biological, psychological, etc.) between individuals, the idea of well-being involves tensions and crisis among individuals on one hand, individuals and the social group, and between two social groups. The work then sets out to illustrate how this is the case and articulate how this problem can be resolved. It proposes the idea of relational wellbeing defined as the ability to initiate and sustain a valid relationship with others broadly conceived as a social group, other persons or institutions, etc, as a plausible option to add this problem. The method applied is textual review and intuitive deductions.

THE PARADIGM OF TERRORISTS’OPERATIONS IN TARABA STATE, THE PROMISSORY NOTE OF THE LAW, THE FAILURE OF GOVERNMENT, AND THE ROLE OF RELIGION

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

Hitherto, terrorists in Taraba State have engaged in the nefarious act of bombing of facilities, leading to the loss of many lives and destruction of property. However, in recent times, terrorism, has assumed a paradigm shift that found expression in banditry and kidnapping. These have affected the people in no small measure; threatening their lives and means of livelihood. This study was an attempt to understand the situation in view to proffering solutions. The study found out that Fiscal terrorism occasioned by theft of the national treasury by government agents, coupled with other factors such as the Ambazonia struggle for Independence in the Anglophone Cameroon, clemency over Chieftaincy rights in places such as Takum, Sardauna and Karim Lamido Local Government Areas, the exploration of Rose wood, the displacement of Boko Haram and ISWAP in northeast Nigeria, gave impetus to terrorist influx in Taraba State. These terrorists operated mostly through high-profile kidnapping and banditry. These have affected Taraba State in areas such as education, agriculture and tourism. To make matters worse, the Laws on the fight against terrorism and terrorist financinghave been ineffective, hence, demonstrating the failure of Government. The study recommended that Christian, Islamic and Traditional leaders should form a caucus through their various recognized groups, in order to pressure the government to enact effective legislation, checkmate corruption, equip the security agencies, so as to be effective in the fight against terrorism. These religious leaders, through their institutions, should also inculcate moral values to their adherents, which will go a long way in strengthening social solidarity for corporate existence and development.

MACABRE DANCE OF MASQUERADES IN OUR POLITICAL SQUARE: AN EXPLORATION OF THE INTERSECTION OF RELIGION AND POLITICS IN NORTHEASTERN NIGERIA

2025-05-05T18:21:09+00:00

The socio-political environment in northeastern Nigeria reflects a history of inadequate political leadership in the region. This situation highlights the necessity of investigating the reasons behind the endorsement of political candidates by religious leaders, who are often perceived as mere instruments in the political arena. To address this inquiry, the research employed qualitative techniques for data collection and analysis. Focus group discussions were conducted across seven sessions in each state of northeastern Nigeria, involving randomly selected adherents from both religious groups. Additionally, interviews with clergy from both religions were also conducted via telephone. Data collection occurred in September 2024. The findings were examined and interpreted through the framework of needs and conspiracy theories. The study found that the endorsement of political candidates by religious leaders is significantly shaped by their personal needs and aspirations, which contrasts with the public image they project. This calls for religious leaders to adhere to altruistic principles in consideration of their followers, who have suffered for an extended period.

RETHINKING THE IMPERATIVE OF TEACHERS' COMPETENCES IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL APPROACH

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

Abstract Education is integral in any nation's march to development. This makes teacher education and lived experiences of teachers something to be taken seriously. Teacher Professional Development (TPD) should focus more on the well-being of the teacher in inclusive educational settings. It is imperative that teachers are equipped not only with the necessary knowledge and skills but also with the emotional resilience and support to navigate the complexities of inclusive education. This holistic approach to teacher professional development can lead to more effective and inclusive educational practices in schools. Inclusive education demands that teachers be equipped with a variety of competencies that allow them to cater to students or learners with diverse abilities, backgrounds, and needs. However, the conventional comprehensions of teachers' competencies, abilities that are largely defined in terms of technical and pedagogical skills, fail to capture the complex lived experiences of educators in inclusive settings. This paper employs a phenomenological approach to rethink teachers' competencies by exploring the subjective, emotional, and ethical dimensions of teaching in inclusive classrooms. It unveils how proficiency or competence is not merely a laid-down, predefined skill but a dynamic, evolving process shaped by real-life interactions, challenges, and personal growth. Overall, this paper calls for a reform in teacher education programs advocating for the inclusion of reflective practices where the teacher puts a premium on assisting him/herself by developing the skill to cogitate on his/her teaching and learning experiences, thoughts, and practices; and

ETHNIC CHAUVINISM AND DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: AN APPRAISAL.

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

Ethnic chauvinism remains one of the most significant challenges confronting Nigeria's political system in the post-colonial era. The influence of ethnicity on Nigeria's political landscape, economic progress, and overall development cannot be over-emphasized. A viable political system for Nigeria must recognize and incorporate the essence of ethnic diversity and cultural differences. As a nation characterized by cultural heterogeneity, multi-ethnic groups, linguistic diversity, and religious plurality, Nigeria faces the complexity of harmonizing these differences. Each ethnic group operates with distinct ideologies that shape their perspectives on societal development. However, the structural development of Nigeria is hindered by the persistence of ethnic chauvinism, which impedes equitable access to developmental opportunities. This paper, employing philosophical appraisal and critical argumentation, examines the implications of ethnic chauvinism and proposes strategies for fostering sustainable national development in Nigeria.

PEACE EDUCATION IN NIGERIA, A PRACTICAL ANTIDOTE TO VIOLENCE APPROACH IN SCHOOLS AND THE SOCIETY AT LARGE

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

This paper is a critical attempt to highlight the role of peace educators in schools and the society at large as well as the relevance of peaceful relationship among individuals, groups and the society in general. The work covered the concept of peace and education. Through qualitative method of rigorous research ranging from field work, use of libraries, review of books, the role of peace education was examined. Interesting issues such as the meaning of peace, challenges of peace education and peace educators were studied. Similarly, critical study on how to achieve peace both in schools and the society were highlighted. The paper, therefore, argues that, the introduction of peace education both in primary and secondary schools in Nigeria will inculcate discipline in young ones and create a road-map for future leaders that are devoid of restless inclination.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION AS A THREAT TO HUMAN SECURITY IN URHOBOLAND

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

One of the manifest problems in the contemporary environmental crisis is environmental pollution. Environmental pollution is the injection into the atmosphere, land, or marine bodies of poisonous or unhealthy substances or elements. Some of the negative effects of environmental pollution are that it can lead to health problems, environmental degradation, climate change, degradation of social infrastructure, occupational hazards, and impede human security, which is necessary for people to obtain an optimal good life. While environmental pollution is present in almost every region of the world, there are places where it is common as a result of intensive oil exploitation and other industrial and human activities. One of such regions and places is the Urhoboland of Nigeria’s Niger Delta. Environmental pollution in Urhoboland is precipitated or caused by some of the factors previously listed and many others. It has led to the destruction of biodiversity, and health hazards, and indeed limited the attainment of human security in the region. Through critical hermeneutics and analytic methods, this paper argues for the need to curtail or eradicate environmental pollution in Urhoboland and thus promote human security. The paper reveals that environmental pollution is occurring in Urhoboland and frustrating the attainment of full human security. The paper concludes that if environmental pollution is abated, it will help in promoting human security of the people of Urhoboland. And this can be possible by adopting effective legal and other measures to safeguard the environment and ensure human security.

THE ROLE OF BOUNDARY SITUATIONS IN KARL JASPERS' EPISTEMOLOGY AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN UNDERSTANDING

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

This paper delves into Karl Jaspers' epistemology, focusing specifically on the role of boundary situations in shaping human understanding. Boundary situations, such as death, suffering, guilt, uncertainties and conflict, are moments where the limits of human knowledge are confronted, challenging the individual to transcend conventional forms of knowing. Jaspers argues that in such moments of crises, the human capacity for understanding is forced to confront its own limits, sparking a deeper, more existential mode of knowing. Jaspers' existential framework presents these situations not as purely negative experiences but opportunities for profound insight, self-realization which enables man move to a higher form of understanding. When individuals face with limits of experience, they are pushed beyond everyday rationality and begin to engage with what lies beyond comprehension, what Jaspers calls “philosophical transcendence.” This engagement is not about achieving absolute knowledge, but about recognizing the mystery and openness of existence. Through this confrontation with the unknown, individuals are liberated from illusion of total knowledge and enter a space where they confront both their own subjectivity and the ambiguity of the world around them. The implications of boundary situations for human understanding are profound: reveal the essential incompleteness and contingency of human knowledge. Instead of presenting knowledge as objective, fixed entity, Jaspers’ philosophy highlights the dynamic, existential and subjective nature of understanding. Ultimately, this paper argues that Jaspers provides a crucial lens through which contemporary human understanding can be interrogated, emphasizing the continued relevance of boundary situations in discussions about understanding and existence.

THE NEXUS OF PHILOSOPHY AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR NIGERIA’S DEMOCRATIC EXPERIENCE

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

Nigeria is bedevilled by the problem of ineffective leadership and this has resulted in political irresponsibility, looting of national treasury, godfatherism, tribal sentiment, terror and terrorism, bribery and corruption, elitist regime, social vices and other kleptocratic practices. Philosophy plays a critical role in galvanizing any country’s quest for national development. Philosophy serves as a catalyst to national development. Philosophy has moral implications for advancing any country’s quest for national development. Philosophy as an academic discipline is critical and it has a broader spectrum in addressing the socio-political, educational and economic challenges of a country. National development reflects aims at human improvement. This paper adopts the analytical framework and the hermeneutical methodology in discussing the nexus of philosophy and national development; and its implications for Nigeria. National development is fundamental in measuring the indices of good governance in a country. Findings, however, show that philosophy is instrumental and it serves as a vital force in ensuring national development and an ideological direction for a country. Nigerian political leadership must be backed by the instrumentality of philosophic contemplation. This paper concludes that philosophy and national development are necessary ingredients for human improvement. This paper recommends that Nigeria should holistically address its national development strategy to pave the way for human capital development. Nigeria as a country should ensure effective national security policy that could galvanize national development. Nigerian political leadership should ensure even distribution of natural and human resources in order to guarantee equality of opportunity of Nigerians.

ICONS, INDEXES AND SYMBOLS IN CHIMAMANDAADICHIE’S PURPLE HIBISCUS: A SEMIOTIC APPROACH

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

Signs abound in literary works and their interpretation form part of the message from the author to reader(s). Unfortunately, most scholars do not regard them as researchable enough to demand scholarly attention. This paper is a re-reading of Adichie’sPurple Hibiscus, deploying the engine of semiotics to create meaning. The data for the study shall be comments and material objects, randomly sampled from various sections of the select text and analyzed within the lens of visual and social semiotics. Findings are that the Igbos have a rich cultural heritage which, if caution is not exercised, may die a natural death because of lack of interest in upholding our identity; our legacies. The study concludes that the whole human experience, without exception, is an interpretive structure mediated and sustained by signs, and that readers miss the fundamental message of a fictional work when there is no integration/interpretation of the verbal and non-verbal clues, which are signs in themselves. The study recommends that the dearth of scholarship in literary semiotics should be discouraged, by all means, for the sole purpose of preserving our cultural heritage/moral and social values that are fast disappearing.

IGBO-AFRICAN PHILOSOPHY OF BEING AND CATEGORIES OF BEING

2025-05-05T18:21:10+00:00

Metaphysics as a branch of philosophy, concerns itself with the determination of the nature of being- the meaning, structure and principles of whatever is insofar as it is. Thus, the fundamental question within the parameters of enquiry in metaphysics has been on the nature of being right from the Pre-Socratic Period through the Medieval and Modern Epochs to the Contemporary Era. This research focuses on the concept of being. However, while there are several articles on the meaning of being, it distinguishes itself by its discourse on the nature of being in Igbo-African ontology, unveiling how in recent times, African thinkers have tried to redefine being, moving away from the elusive and unsubstantive concepts employed by their Western counterparts. For this paper, the hermeneutic, analytical and critical methods of inquiry were employed. The paper submits that there is a distinct Igbo-African concept of being, which is fundamental for the understanding of African metaphysics.