Mother Tongue: Why It Is Relevant In Schools

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Language is the garment of thought, and the mother tongue is the fabric that weaves together the intricate patterns of a nation’s culture and identity.

In Nigeria, a country with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, the importance of mother tongue cannot be overstated.

As the Yoruba proverb goes, “Ọrọ naa jẹ ẹṣin ti ero, ati ero ni ẹṣin ọrọ naa” (The word is the horse of thought, and thought is the horse of the word). This article argues that the mother tongue should be encouraged in schools, using Nigeria as a case study.

Nigeria has rich linguistic diversity, and language plays a vital role in shaping the country’s culture and identity. However, despite this diversity, Nigerian languages are facing significant challenges, including the dominance of the English language, which is the language of instruction in most Nigerian schools. This has led to a decline in the use of the mother tongue, even in schools where it is officially recognized.

Furthermore, the increasing use of Nigerian-Pidgin, also known as Broken-English, is also a major challenge facing Nigerian languages. Nigerian-Pidgin is a widely spoken language in Nigeria, but it is not a standardized language and lacks the richness and complexity of Nigerian languages.

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the decline of Nigerian languages and the impact it has on the country’s culture and identity. Many Nigerians are worried that the loss of Nigerian languages will lead to the erosion of the country’s cultural heritage and national identity. As the Igbo saying goes, “Asụsụ bụ isi mmadụ, asụsụ bụ isi ndụ” (Language is the essence of humanity, language is the essence of life).

This article argues that promoting mother tongue in schools is essential for preserving Nigeria’s linguistic diversity and promoting national identity.

The Importance of Mother Tongue

Mother tongue, also known as the first language or native language, is the language a child learns from the warmth of their mother’s voice, from the tender age of birth. It is the language that echoes through the halls of their home, resonates in the streets of their community, and weaves the rich colours of their culture. Research has unequivocally shown that mother tongue plays a vital and indispensable role in a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development (Cummins, 2000).

As the Hausa saying so eloquently goes, “sadarwa tana bayyana al’umma ta gaskiya, kuma harshe shine ambulan mafi mahimmanci don cikakkiyar sadarwa” (communication defines a true community, and language is the most important envelope for a complete communication). This profound saying underscores the significance of mother tongue in shaping the very fabric of a child’s being. In Nigeria, a country with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, mother tongue is essential for preserving cultural heritage and promoting national identity.

As noted by Fafunwa (1990), “language is the soul of a nation, and the mother tongue is the soul of the language.” This peculiar statement highlights the critical role mother tongue plays in nurturing a nation’s soul. By promoting mother tongue in schools, children can develop a strong sense of identity, a deep connection to their cultural roots, and a profound understanding of their heritage.

The Hausa often say, “Kasuwanci ba ta da iyaka, amma harshen ta da iyaka” (Trade has no boundaries, but language has boundaries). This wise saying reminds us that while trade and commerce may know no borders, language remains a vital part of our identity, a bridge that connects us to our past, our present, and our future.

By embracing mother tongue, we can empower Nigerian children to become confident, culturally grounded, and linguistically proficient individuals, equipped to navigate the complexities of an increasingly globalized world while remaining rooted in their rich cultural heritage.

This is particularly important in Nigeria, where linguistic and cultural diversity are deeply intertwined with national identity. By promoting mother tongue, we can help Nigerian children develop a strong sense of self and cultural belonging, which is essential for building a cohesive and harmonious society.

Moreover, research has shown that children who are taught in their mother tongue tend to perform better academically, especially in reading and writing (Cummins, 2000). This is because mother tongue provides a foundation for learning, allowing children to connect new concepts and ideas to their existing knowledge and experiences.

The Yoruba say, “Iwaju, ẹhin, osi tabi ọtun.  Ko si ibi ti o dara ju ile lọ. Ilu abinibi ni ibiti a wa” (Front, back, left or right. There is no place better than home. The homeland is where we belong). This saying reminds us that our mother tongue is an integral part of our identity, connecting us to our homeland, our culture, and our people. By promoting mother tongue, we can help  children develop a strong sense of belonging and connection to their cultural roots.

Global Best Practices

Many developed countries recognize the importance of mother tongue in education, and have implemented policies and programs to promote its use in schools. These countries demonstrate that promoting mother tongue is essential for preserving cultural heritage, promoting national identity, and achieving academic excellence.

• Japan – A Model for Language Education: In Japan, for example, the education system places a strong emphasis on the use of Japanese language and culture. From a young age, children are taught to read and write in Japanese, and the language is used as the primary medium of instruction throughout their education. This has contributed to Japan’s exceptionally high literacy rates and academic achievement (Kataoka, 2015). The Japanese education system’s emphasis on the mother tongue has also helped to promote a strong sense of national identity and cultural heritage. Japanese children learn about their country’s history, literature, and traditions through the medium of their mother tongue, which helps to foster a deep appreciation and understanding of their cultural roots.
• Finland – A Bilingual Education System: Similarly, in Finland, the education system uses Finnish and Swedish as the languages of instruction. This bilingual approach to education has helped to promote a strong sense of national identity and cultural heritage, while also providing children with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an increasingly globalized world (Niemi, 2015). Finland’s education system is highly regarded internationally, and the country’s emphasis on mother-tongue education is a key factor in its success. By teaching children in their mother tongue, Finnish schools can provide a high-quality education that is tailored to the needs and abilities of each child.
• Canada: Promoting Indigenous Languages and Cultures: In Canada, the education system recognizes the importance of promoting indigenous languages and cultures. Many schools offer programs in indigenous languages, such as Inuktitut and Cree, which help to preserve the cultural heritage of Canada’s indigenous peoples (Canadian Education Association, 2019). These programs not only provide Indigenous children with the opportunity to learn about their cultural roots but also help to promote greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures among non-indigenous students. By promoting indigenous languages and cultures, Canadian schools are helping to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Lessons for Nigeria

These international examples demonstrate the importance of promoting mother tongue education in Nigeria. By emphasizing the use of Nigerian languages in schools, the country can help to preserve its rich cultural heritage, promote national identity, and achieve greater academic success.

To achieve this, the Nigerian government and educational stakeholders must work together to develop policies and programs that support mother tongue education. This may involve providing training for teachers, developing instructional materials in Nigerian languages, and promoting the use of mother tongue in schools and communities.

The Importance of Mother Tongue

The importance of mother tongue cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in shaping an individual’s identity, culture, and future.

1. Cultural Identity and Belonging: The mother tongue is closely tied to a person’s cultural identity and sense of belonging. It is the language of their ancestors, traditions, and customs. When children learn their mother tongue, they also learn about their cultural heritage and the values and beliefs that come with it. This helps them develop a strong sense of identity and belonging to their community.
2. Cognitive Development and Academic Achievement: Research has shown that children who are taught in their mother tongue tend to perform better academically, especially in reading and writing (Cummins, 2000). Mother tongue provides a foundation for learning, allowing children to connect new concepts and ideas to their existing knowledge and experiences. This, in turn, enhances their cognitive development and academic achievement.
3. Language Development and Literacy: Mother tongue is essential for language development and literacy. When children learn to read and write in their mother tongue, they develop essential literacy skills that can be transferred to other languages. This helps them become proficient readers and writers, which is critical for academic success and future opportunities.
4. Emotional Intelligence and Well-being: Mother tongue is also linked to emotional intelligence and well-being. When children are taught in their mother tongue, they are more likely to feel comfortable and confident in their learning environment. This, in turn, enhances their emotional well-being and helps them develop essential life skills, such as communication, empathy, and self-awareness.
5. Economic Empowerment: Mother tongue can also be a source of economic empowerment. When individuals are proficient in their mother tongue, they are more likely to have better job prospects and economic opportunities. This is especially true in communities where the mother tongue is also the language of commerce and trade.
6. National Unity and Identity: Most importantly, mother tongue is relevant in promoting national unity and identity. When children learn their mother tongue, they also learn about their national heritage and the values and principles that unite their country. This helps to promote a sense of national identity and unity, which is essential for building a strong and cohesive society..
7. Mother Tongue Preserve Cultural Heritage: Promoting mother tongue education in Nigeria can also help to preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage. By teaching children in their mother tongue, schools can help to promote a sense of cultural identity and belonging, while also passing on important cultural values and traditions to future generations. Preserving cultural heritage through mother tongue is a vital aspect of maintaining a community’s identity. When children learn their mother tongue, they also learn about their cultural heritage, including traditions, customs, and values.¹ This helps to pass on cultural knowledge from one generation to the next, ensuring its survival.

Importance of Mother Tongue in Cultural Preservation

Mother tongue plays a significant role in preserving cultural heritage in several ways:

• Cultural Identity: Mother tongue is closely tied to a community’s cultural identity. It helps to define who they are, their history, and their values.
• Traditional Knowledge: Mother tongue is often the primary means of passing on traditional knowledge, such as stories, myths, and legends.
• Community Cohesion: Mother tongue helps to promote community cohesion by providing a common language and cultural framework.
• Promotion of National Identity: Mother tongue education can also play an important role in promoting national identity in Nigeria. By emphasizing the use of Nigerian languages in schools, the country can help to promote a sense of shared identity and citizenship among its citizens.
• Economic Benefits: Finally, promoting mother tongue education in Nigeria can also have economic benefits. By providing children with a high-quality education in their mother tongue, schools can help to equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Challenges of Mother Tongue in Nigerian Schools

Despite its importance, mother tongue faces significant challenges in Nigerian schools. These challenges are multifaceted and interconnected, and they must be addressed to promote the use of the mother tongue in education.

Mother tongue preservation preservation faces several challenges, including:

• Globalization: The increasing dominance of global languages, such as English, threatens the survival of minority languages.
• Urbanization: Urbanization can lead to language shift, as younger generations may prefer to speak more widely spoken languages.
• Lack of Support: Many minority languages lack support and resources, making it difficult to preserve them.⁵
• Dominance of English Language: One major challenge is the dominance of English language, which is the language of instruction in most Nigerian schools. This has led to a decline in the use of mother tongue, even in schools where it is officially recognized (Bamgbose, 1991). As the Yoruba saying goes, “Awa omo ile, awa omo ita” (We are the children of the homeland, we are the children of the earth). The overemphasis on English language has resulted in a situation where many Nigerian children are more proficient in English than in their mother tongue.
• Lack of Trained Teachers and Instructional Materials: Another challenge is the lack of trained teachers and instructional materials in mother tongue. Many Nigerian teachers are not trained to teach in mother tongue, and instructional materials are often scarce or unavailable (Afolayan, 2001). The Igbo say, “Ọ bụrụ na ị mụtaghị, ị gaghị ama” (If you don’t learn, you will not know). This lack of resources and support makes it difficult for schools to implement mother tongue education effectively.
• Increasing Use of Nigerian-Pidgin: Furthermore, the increasing use of Nigerian-Pidgin is also a major challenge facing Nigerian languages. Nigerian-Pidgin is widely spoken in Nigeria, but it lacks the richness and complexity of Nigerian languages. As the Hausas clearly put, “Harshen ba shi da iyaka, amma iyakoki suna da harsuna” (Language has no boundaries, but boundaries have languages). The spread of Nigerian-Pidgin is contributing to the decline of Nigerian languages, and it is essential to address this issue in order to promote the use of mother tongue in education.

Other challenges facing mother tongue education in Nigeria include:

• Lack of funding and resources to support mother tongue education
• Limited availability of mother tongue instructional materials and resources
• Negative attitudes towards mother tongue education among some parents and educators
• Limited support for mother tongue education from government and educational authorities

Benefits of Promoting Mother Tongue in Schools

Promoting mother tongue in schools can have numerous benefits for Nigerian children. These benefits are far-reaching and can have a positive impact on their academic performance, cognitive development, cultural heritage, and future prospects. Some of the benefits include:

1. Improved Academic Performance: Research has shown that children who are taught in their mother tongue tend to perform better academically (Cummins, 2000). This is because mother tongue provides a foundation for learning, allowing children to connect new concepts and ideas to their existing knowledge and experiences. 
2. Enhanced Cognitive Development: Mother tongue instruction can enhance cognitive development, including problem-solving and critical thinking skills (Bialystok, 2001). This is because mother tongue provides a framework for thinking and communicating, allowing children to develop their cognitive abilities in a more effective and efficient way. As the Yoruba proverb says, “Ori ni ohun ti a lo lati ro” (The head is what we use to think).
3. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: As the Igbo saying goes, “Omenala bụ ndụ” (Culture is life). Promoting mother tongue in schools can help preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and promote national identity via the continuous transfer of mother tongue from the old to the young. By teaching children in their mother tongue, schools can help to promote a sense of cultural identity and knowledge transfer, while also passing on important cultural values and traditions to future generations.
4. Increased Parental Involvement: Mother tongue instruction can increase parental involvement in children’s education, as parents are more likely to participate in educational activities conducted in their native language (Afolayan, 2001). As the Hausa proverb rightly put, “Ci gaban yaro shine ci gaban iyaye” (The child’s progress is the parent’s progress). This can help to build stronger relationships between parents and teachers, and promote a more collaborative approach to education.
5. Promoting Linguistic Diversity: Nigeria is a country with over 500 languages, and promoting mother tongue in schools can help preserve this linguistic diversity. As the Yoruba saying goes, “Ahọn jẹ ẹlẹgbẹ ẹnu” (The tongue is the companion of the mouth). By recognizing and valuing the diverse languages of Nigeria, schools can help to promote a sense of pride and identity among children, and preserve the country’s rich linguistic heritage.
6. Enhancing National Unity: Promoting mother tongue in schools can help promote national unity by recognizing and valuing the diverse languages and cultures of Nigeria. As the Igbo saying goes, “Igwe bu ike” (Unity is strength). By celebrating the country’s linguistic diversity, schools can help to promote a sense of shared identity and citizenship among children, and build a more harmonious and inclusive society.
7. Supporting Economic Development: Promoting mother tongue in schools can also support economic development by providing a foundation for literacy and education in local languages. As the Hausa proverb says, “Kudi ya yi wa kaya” (Money is the foundation of wealth). By teaching children in their mother tongue, schools can help to equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce and contribute to the country’s economic development.
8. Preserving Traditional Knowledge: Mother tongue instruction can help preserve traditional knowledge and cultural practices by passing them down to younger generations. As the Yoruba saying goes, “Ile la ti n ko” (The homeland is where we belong). By teaching children in their mother tongue, schools can help to promote a sense of cultural identity and belonging, while also preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Final Thoughts

Mother tongue is the foundation of our identity, the bridge that connects us to our past, our present, and our future. By promoting mother tongue, we can empower children to become confident, culturally grounded, and linguistically proficient individuals, equipped to navigate the complexities of an increasingly globalized world while remaining rooted in their rich cultural heritage.

Promoting mother tongue education in Nigeria is essential for preserving the country’s cultural heritage, promoting national identity, and achieving greater academic success. By emphasizing the use of Nigerian languages in schools, the country can help to provide its children with a high-quality education that is tailored to their needs and abilities. To achieve this, the Nigerian government and educational stakeholders must work together to develop policies and programs that support mother tongue education.

By recognizing and valuing the diverse languages of Nigeria, schools can help to promote a sense of pride and identity among children, preserve the country’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage, and build a more harmonious and inclusive society.

Mother tongue is a vital component of Nigerian culture and identity. Promoting mother tongue in schools can have numerous benefits for Nigerian children, including improved academic performance, enhanced cognitive development, preservation of cultural heritage, and increased parental involvement. 

To achieve this, the Nigerian government and educational stakeholders must work together to provide trained teachers, instructional materials, and infrastructure to support mother tongue instruction.

ENGLISH

Our language is the most important aspect of our identity, source of our pride, and the very essence of our culture.

We should be proud to identify with our language as a way of life and transfer it onto to our children’s children.

 

YORUBA

Ede wa jẹ ẹya pataki julọ ti idanimọ wa, orisun igberaga wa, ati pataki ti aṣa wa.

 O yẹ ki a ni igberaga lati ṣe idanimọ ede wa gẹgẹbi ọna igbesi aye ati gbe lọ si awọn ọmọ awọn ọmọde wa.

 

IGBO

Asụsụ anyị bụ akụkụ kacha mkpa nke njirimara anyị, isi mmalite anyị na-akpa nganga, na ihe bụ isi na omenala anyị.

 Anyị kwesịrị iji mpako mata asụsụ anyị dị ka ụzọ ndụ wee bufee ya na ụmụ ụmụ anyị.

 

HAUSA

Harshenmu shi ne mafi girman al’amari na ainihi, tushen abin alfaharinmu, da ainihin al’adunmu.

 Ya kamata mu yi alfaharin gane harshenmu a matsayin hanyar rayuwa tare da tura shi zuwa ga yaran yaranmu.

 

Recommendations

To promote mother tongue in Nigerian schools, the following recommendations should be considered:

1. The Nigerian government should develop policies that promote the use of mother tongue in schools.
2. Educational stakeholders should provide training for teachers on mother tongue instruction.
3. Instructional materials should be developed in local languages to support mother tongue instruction.
4. Parents and communities should be encouraged to participate in educational activities conducted in mother tongue.
5. Nigerian-Pidgin should not be promoted as a replacement for Nigerian languages, but rather as a complementary language for communication.

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