Nigeria Urged to Follow China’s Footsteps in Preserving Indigenous Languages

Nigeria has been advised to follow China’s footsteps in preserving its indigenous languages to prevent them from going extinct.

The call was made by the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. James Sule, during an interview on the sidelines of the International Chinese Language Day organized by the China Cultural Center in Abuja.

According to Sule, Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups and approximately 512 languages. The urgency to protect and revitalize these languages has never been more pressing.

He pointed out that China’s proactive steps, including the establishment of language schools, cultural centers, and the integration of indigenous languages into educational curricula, serve as a blueprint for Nigerian policymakers.

The Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr. Li Xuda, emphasized the importance of language as a great creation of mankind that witnesses the evolution and development of human civilization.

He added that language is not just a means of communication but also a vital component of cultural identity and heritage.

The Director-General of the National Gallery of Art, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi, commended the Chinese government for its efforts in preserving its language and urged the Nigerian government to adopt similar measures to prevent indigenous languages from becoming extinct.

He emphasized the need for the Federal Government to set aside days to celebrate the various languages across all cultures in Nigeria and embed these languages in homes and the school systems.

In light of Nigeria’s linguistic diversity, the advice to follow China’s approach in language preservation could pave the way for a more inclusive society that values and celebrates its linguistic heritage.

By investing in language preservation efforts and encouraging bilingual education, Nigeria can ensure that its indigenous languages remain an integral part of its cultural identity.

As Nigeria reflects on the lessons learned from China’s successful language preservation efforts, it is crucial for the government, educational institutions, and individuals to take proactive steps in safeguarding the country’s linguistic diversity.

By doing so, Nigeria can preserve its rich cultural heritage for future generations to come.