Nigeria, blessed with over 500 languages and numerous dialects spread across its various ethnic groups, is a nation with immense linguistic diversity and cultural prestige.
From Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo to the minority tongues like Ebira, Nupe, Tiv, etc, Nigeria’s languages form a vibrant cultural tapestry. Yet, despite this richness, many of these languages are gradually going into extinction, raising serious concerns about cultural and identity loss. Hence, a recall for the preservation of the languages and dialects.
Table of Contents
Why We Need to Preserve These Languages
1. Language As a Keeper of Identity and Culture
Language is more than a tool for communication. It is the heartbeat of culture. Within each Nigerian language exist centuries-old traditions, oral histories, folktales, philosophies, and values. When a language dies, a window into a people’s worldview is closed forever. Preserving indigenous languages is, therefore, a means of preserving Nigeria’s diverse heritage and ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots.
2. Education And Cognitive Development
Research has proven that children learn better when taught in their mother tongue. Early education in indigenous languages will not only foster a stronger understanding but also boost critical thinking and cognitive flexibility. Encouraging the use of local languages in early schooling, alongside English, can significantly improve literacy and learning outcomes, particularly in rural areas.
3. Fostering Unity
In a country often divided along ethnic and linguistic lines, recognizing and preserving all Nigerian languages promotes inclusion, unity, and respect. When all languages are given space to thrive, whether through education, the media, or official recognition, people feel seen, valued, and heard. This sense of belonging can help foster national unity amid diversity.
4. Economic And Technological Relevance
There is also an economic argument for language preservation. Indigenous languages can drive creative industries such as film, literature, music, and tourism. Furthermore, as Nigeria continues to grow in the digital space, integrating native languages into apps, websites, and software can broaden access and encourage innovation. The development of indigenous language keyboards, AI voice assistants, and translation tools is already gaining momentum globally.
How To Preserve These Languages
Preserving languages requires intentional action across homes, schools, media, and policymaking. Even simple steps like speaking your language proudly and teaching it to the next generation can make a lasting difference. Some of the steps involved in preserving these languages include:
1. Integrating Indigenous Languages in Schools
Implementing mother-tongue-based instruction in early childhood and primary education will help preserve the languages. Include indigenous language subjects in school curriculums beyond the major ones (Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo).
2. Teaching Indigenous Language at Home
Parents and elders should make it a habit of speaking their indigenous languages to their children from an early age. Make local language use a natural part of everyday communication.
3. Support From Government and Institutions
The government should fund language preservation projects through cultural agencies and NGOs. They should also make indigenous language use visible in public signs, government communications, and official documents.
4. Training And Academic Involvement
Local researchers and universities should be encouraged to study, document, and publish works on endangered languages. Training for language teachers and translators in more Nigerian dialects should also be established.
5. Celebrating And Normalizing Local Languages
The government should host events like cultural festivals, debates, and storytelling competitions in native tongues. International Mother Language Day and similar events at national and local levels should also be marked and celebrated.
Challenges to Preservation
Unfortunately, the dominance of English, rapid urbanization, globalization, and internal migration are making it harder for indigenous languages to survive. In many homes, children are no longer taught their native languages, with English seen as more prestigious or practical. As a result, intergenerational language transmission is breaking down, and many Nigerian children today grow up unable to speak the language of their ancestors.
Call to Action
Language preservation is a shared responsibility. On the institutional level, policies that promote bilingual education, fund language research, and support local-language broadcasting are essential. Cultural festivals, literary competitions, and radio programs in native languages can also encourage wider usage.
On a personal level, parents and guardians must intentionally teach and speak their languages at home. Communities can record and archive their stories, songs, and proverbs for future generations.
Final Thoughts
The preservation of Nigerian languages is not just a cultural obligation; it is a national imperative. Each language is a treasure chest of wisdom, identity, and worldview that deserves to be protected and celebrated. Whether by speaking, teaching, documenting, or digitizing them, every Nigerian has a role to play in keeping our linguistic heritage alive.
The time to act is now, before silence replaces the rich voices of our past.
Read also: Fading Voices: The Decline Of Indigenous Languages In Nigeria
