On Facebook, there’s this video featuring a young boy from Ogidi, Anambra State, who goes by the name Chinechierem Nwankwo.
This boy is just 12 years old and is skilled at woodcarving, specifically carving ‘Okposi Chi’ for native Doctors and ndi Ezenwayi.
He claims to have received inspiration from a dream, and people are eagerly purchasing his products because they are effective.
He also shares the secret behind his potency, saying that he uses Oji tree, Orji tree (Iroko), Ukpaka tree, and Ogirise trees for carving the woodwork, for it be effective. He even knows the names of all his artwork
As you can see, other children work alongside him, and he pays them.
At the age of 12, this boy is an employer of labour in Nigeria.
In the comments, some people suggest he should be in school with his mates or pursue other endeavours, while others praise and offer support.
In my opinion, nobody should discourage this talented boy. Although he’s currently in primary 6, those around him should also encourage him to take his education seriously.
His craftsmanship has the potential to make him a millionaire in the future. It’s evident that this skill is a gift from his Chi, and abandoning it could make life challenging for him.
I also suggest contacting the Commissioner of Culture and Tourism in Anambra State to guide this boy in utilizing his potential to grow our culture and boost tourism in the state.
Before condemning him for his handiwork, remember that many developed countries are making millions of dollars from this kind of wooden work, which they appropriated from our land during the colonial era.
If you visit their museums, people pay handsomely to see such artwork. You’ll witness admiration for his art, with some pieces selling for millions of dollars.
What this boy needs is guidance, support, and encouragement because if the spirit is revealing to him what to carve, I believe it can also reveal to him how to build something that will benefit humanity.
What will you do if you happen to be his parents or one of the family members??
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