Mother Language Day: Culture officers promote linguistic diversity

In commemoration of the 2024 Mother Language Day, cultural officers in the Ministry of Art, culture, tourism and the creative economy have called for the promotion of linguistic diversity to preserve Nigeria’s language from the risk of extinction. They advocate for a seamless weave of Nigeria’s gastronomy, cuisines and musical instruments as significant symbols for properly chronicling the culture and heritage of the people.

In commemoration of the 2024 Mother Tongue Day, cultural officers from the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy have launched a passionate call for the promotion of linguistic diversity across Nigeria.

They emphasise the urgent need to safeguard Nigeria’s rich array of languages, many of which are now at risk of extinction due to globalisation and the dominance of a few major languages.

To effectively preserve these languages, the officers propose a harmonious integration of Nigeria’s diverse gastronomy, traditional cuisines, and musical instruments into cultural narratives.
These elements according to them, not only serve as significant symbols of identity but also play a crucial role in documenting and celebrating the country’s vibrant culture and heritage.

By showcasing the interconnectedness of language, food, and music, they aim to foster greater appreciation for Nigeria’s cultural wealth and encourage younger generations to engage with and cherish their linguistic roots.

This call was made Wednesday at the International Mother Language Day and a Workshop on Traditional Music Equipment Gastronomy held at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja.

In his opening remarks, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Mr Obi Raphael, elaborated on the ministry’s commitment to fostering linguistic diversity within the nation.

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He outlined a series of initiatives that have been successfully implemented, including comprehensive documentation of local languages, the establishment of language education programmes in schools, and the promotion of cultural exchange initiatives aimed at celebrating and preserving Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage.

Mr Raphael expressed concern over the widespread neglect of traditional Nigerian musical instruments, highlighting the urgent need for their preservation and revitalisation.

He stated: “The young Nigerian generation has the cultural responsibility to keep these musical instruments alive. The socio-cultural impact and economic significance of this workshop have a multiplier effect, and it is orchestrated to identify our arts, promote culture, oneness, and social cohesion and boost the global economy.”

The head of the Department of Culture Industries and Heritage, Rev. Dr. Ben Anamah, noted the essential role that families and academic institutions play in the preservation of our mother tongue.

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He encouraged religious institutions to embrace local musical instruments rather than dismiss them, suggesting a harmonious blend with modern instruments to enrich and protect Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“God, in His infinite wisdom, did not designate a specific instrument for worship. Contemporary Christians, Muslims, and practitioners of African traditional religions need to integrate traditional instruments with modern ones, as this fusion can help safeguard our cultural identity. The journey of embracing our mother tongue should begin within families and educational settings,” he said.

Also, Mr. Yang Jianxing, the director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, remarked on the profound connection between language and music as crucial elements of cultural heritage.

He called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in preserving their mother tongue, drawing inspiration from the dedication shown by the Chinese in the face of modern influences.