The call for the use of indigenous languages in Nigerian schools has gained further momentum from Professor Chinyere Beatrice Egwuogu, an expert in English Language and Sociolinguistics.
Prof Egwuogu made the clarion call recently while delivering the 25th Inaugural Lecture of the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State.
Prof. Egwuogu advocated for the immediate implementation of the National Language Policy (NLP) to preserve Indigenous languages.
The lecture, titled “English, Indigenous Nigerian Languages and Lingual-Cultural Identity Crisis in Nigeria: Remediating the Disconnection,” took place at the TETFund 2012 Hall of the Ijagun Main Campus.
In her lecture, Prof. Egwuogu highlighted the crisis of linguistic and cultural identity in Nigeria, urging the implementation of the NLP to prioritize the preservation and function of Indigenous languages. She noted that these languages have been marginalized due to the dominance of English, a trend traced back to the missionary Education system and colonial administration that established English as the medium of instruction and a marker of elite status.
The Professor of English Language and Sociolinguistics emphasized that Indigenous languages are vital for cultural identity and embodiment of knowledge and experiences of their speakers.
She cited empirical evidence showing that children educated in their mother tongue develop curiosity and critical thinking skills more effectively, enhancing their educational achievements.
Prof. Egwuogu appealed to parents to speak their mother tongues to their children, fostering a connection to their cultural heritage.
She encouraged the younger generation to embrace and speak Indigenous languages, recognizing their importance for cultural identity.
“I recommend that Indigenous languages should be used alongside English at all Educational levels, from Primary to University as this will further enhance learning abilities of the Students.
Furthermore, the immediate implementation of the NLP, with a monitoring committee that will ensure compliance in schools and other strategic areas should be put in place”, she noted.
She also suggested efforts should be made to develop Indigenous languages to explain Educational concepts citing the examples of China and Japan.
This should be supported by incentives and funding for language Academies.
The event highlighted the need for a shift in attitude towards Indigenous languages, urging stakeholders to promote their use in important domains.
By embracing the NLP 2022, Nigeria can address the linguistic dislocation experienced by the new generation and foster a more inclusive and culturally connected society.
The lecture was attended by Members of the University Management team, and notable figures including the Vice Chancellor of Gerard University of Medical Science, Imope-Ijebu, Prof. Niran Adetoro; Vice-Chancellor, Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Prof. Chinedum Babalola; Vice Chancellor, Hallmark University, Itele Ijebu, Prof. Olusegun Odunola, the Bursar, Mr Edwin Okekpe; the Bishop of Ijebu Diocese, His Lordship Dr. Peter Oludipe, and his wife, Prof. Bimbo Oludipe, among others.
