INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY: ANAMBRA GOVT URGES TEACHERS, PARENTS, AND STAKEHOLDERS TO PROMOTE IGBO LANGUAGE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

The Anambra Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, has called on teachers, parents, Ohaneze Ndigbo, and the Diaspora to promote the Igbo language in schools, homes, and social gatherings for its sustainability.

The Commissioner made this statement during an interview in his office at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka, in honor of International Mother Language Day, which celebrates its “Silver Jubilee” this year, as initiated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This important day is commemorated every year on February 21.

Mr. Onyenji emphasized the necessity of sustaining the Igbo language, noting that some individuals have neglected their traditional language in favor of the ‘colonial language.’ He referenced reports from UNESCO and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that warned of the possible extinction of the Igbo language.

He also expressed concern about the failure of some members of the diaspora and certain regions in Nigeria to teach their children the Igbo language, noting that this neglect will make it challenging for the children to connect with their traditional environment, family, and community. “As they grow into adulthood, they will find it increasingly difficult to interact with and comprehend what is happening in their traditional village setting.

“We are actively promoting the Igbo language by encouraging its use in all our interactions and discouraging the use of ‘Ngiligbo’, especially during our private meetings. Mixing Igbo with English when other tribes are present is common, but it’s essential that we prioritize speaking pure Igbo,” he said.

He added that both the current generation and future ones need to learn the Igbo language, as being bilingual is beneficial. “Knowing your language enriches your identity, and it can help you in foreign lands when you need support,” he explained.

Commissioner Onyenji expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his dedicated efforts to promote not only the Igbo language but also the core values of Ndi Igbo, which include language.

“What we are currently developing is the revival of the core values of Igbo culture which includes the promotion of our language. Once we finalize our efforts, it will significantly contribute to the promotion and sustainability of our language,” he said.

International Mother Language Day was established by UNESCO in November 1999 to raise awareness of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity and promote multilingualism for future generations.

Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State