A University Don, Prof. Imelda Udoh University of Uyo(UNIUYO) in Akwa Ibom state has called for the protection of all Nigeria indigenous languages to enable the government speak to the people in the languages they really understand.
Udoh, who is of the Department of Linguistics at the University of Uyo made this known weekend while delivering the University’s 81st Inaugural Lecture with the theme “Nigerian Indigenous Languages As Bricks For A National Identity.”
She said that protecting indigenous languages would foster national identity and national integration.
The University Don who explained that language is a relevant tool in the process of achieving national identity, prestige, unity, and development advised that the larger number of languages in the country should not be seen as a challenge , rather, protecting them could improve the infrastructural development in the country despite the overwhelming economic and human resources.
She advised that multilingualism should be treated as an asset maintaining that there is need for these indigenous Nigerian Languages to be used properly and should be recognized.
According to her, there is need for language issue to be brought to the attention of both the government and everyone to ensure that just and democratic decisions are taken on them, as a matter of right.
“Nigeria should protect the existence of both the major and minor linguistics groups. They all have identities that are peculiar to them, and when these identities are promoted individually, each group, without misgivings can feel a better sense of belonging to a center that is sensitive to its individual identity” Udoh explained.
In his remarks, UNIUYO Vice Chancellor Prof Nyaudoh Ndaeyo commended the 81st Inaugural Lecturer for her insightful revelation, which according to him has made people aware that the highest number of languages spoken in Nigeria are found in North-East geopolitical zone, followed by South South and North-Central.
Ndeayo also thanked Udoh for disclosing the fact that Cross River State has the highest number of languages spoken in South South geopolitical zone of Nigeria
The VC added that Inaugural Lecture remained a serious academic business promising that his administration will continue to sustain the lecture in order to maintain the existing cordial relationship between the gown and town.
