With Josephine Oguntoyinbo
In an era of rapid globalisation and increasing Western influence, language experts and cultural advocates have renewed calls on parents, particularly mothers, to ensure that their children learn and speak their native languages.
They argue that the preservation of indigenous languages is crucial to sustaining Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and strengthening children’s sense of identity.
Nigeria is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world, with over 400 indigenous languages spoken across its various ethnic groups. Among the most prominent are Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Tiv, Fulfulde, Efik, Kanuri, Ibibio, Ijaw and Edo. These languages serve as vital channels through which cultural values, traditions and histories are transmitted from one generation to another.
Language is more than a means of communication. It is an essential tool for learning, social interaction and personal development. Experts maintain that a child’s first language plays a significant role in shaping cognitive abilities, emotional growth and self-confidence.
However, there are growing concerns that many indigenous languages are gradually disappearing as parents increasingly favour English as the primary language of communication at home. This trend, observers warn, is contributing to the erosion of cultural values and weakening children’s connection to their roots.
Many parents believe that exposing their children exclusively to English from an early age will enhance their academic performance and social opportunities. While proficiency in English remains important, scholars insist that it should not come at the expense of indigenous languages.
Cultural analysts note that language and culture are inseparable. Through language, children learn traditional greetings, folklore, customs, festivals, moral values and social norms that define their communities. Without knowledge of their mother tongue, they may struggle to fully appreciate their cultural identity.
For instance, the Yoruba language reflects various aspects of Yoruba life, including traditional attire, cuisine, ceremonies, proverbs and respect for elders. Similar cultural treasures are embedded in other indigenous languages across the country.
Educational researchers have also highlighted several benefits of mother-tongue instruction. Studies suggest that children who first develop literacy and communication skills in their native language often find it easier to learn additional languages and perform better academically.
Furthermore, speaking a mother tongue helps children build stronger relationships with family members, especially grandparents and relatives who may not be fluent in English. It also fosters a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage. Although schools have a role to play in promoting indigenous languages, language experts insist that the responsibility begins at home. They emphasise that mothers, who often spend more time with young children, are uniquely positioned to introduce and reinforce the use of native languages during daily interactions.
Speaking on the issue, a language scholar and cultural enthusiast, Dr. Johnson Akinyemi, observed that many developed nations have achieved remarkable progress without abandoning their indigenous languages.
According to him, countries such as Germany, China and Spain continue to prioritise their native languages while embracing modern development.
He urged parents and guardians to make indigenous languages the primary means of communication with their children, stressing that language preservation is essential to safeguarding cultural heritage.
According to Dr Akinyemi, the continued neglect of native languages could have far-reaching consequences. He warned that some languages may eventually disappear if younger generations are not encouraged to speak them regularly.
“It is worrying that some parents deliberately avoid speaking their native languages to their children. Even those who are not fluent in English often insist on communicating in English because they consider it a symbol of civilisation. We must realise that our languages are integral to our identity and culture,” he said.
Corroborating his views, a secondary school teacher and language instructor, Mrs Aderonke Orimoloye, noted that no society can thrive without preserving its cultural heritage. She stressed that language remains one of the strongest pillars upon which culture stands.
As efforts to preserve indigenous languages continue, stakeholders are calling on families to take deliberate steps towards promoting their mother tongues. They believe that if parents, especially mothers, begin speaking their native languages consistently at home, future generations will not only preserve their linguistic heritage but also develop a deeper appreciation of their culture and identity.