As the world commemorates International Mother Language Day on ….., it is crucial to reflect on the profound role of native languages in shaping development. For Nigeria, a country with over 500 indigenous languages, making mother tongues count at home is not just a cultural aspiration but a developmental necessity.

A mother tongue is more than a means of communication; it embodies a people’s history, values, and worldview. In Nigeria, languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Tiv, Ijaw, Efik, Kanuri, etc., carry the essence of diverse cultural identities. Children raised in their native languages inherit a wealth of traditions and stories, ensuring the continuity of their heritage and fostering a deep sense of pride in their roots.

However, the threat of language extinction looms large in Nigeria, as many indigenous languages gradually disappear. UNESCO estimates that nearly 40 per cent of the world’s population lacks access to education in a language they understand, and Nigeria is no exception.

The role of mother tongues in education cannot be overemphasised. Studies have shown that children taught in their first language, during early schooling, perform better academically, as it enhances comprehension, critical thinking, and overall cognitive development.

Nigeria’s National Policy on Education advocates for the use of indigenous languages as the medium of instruction in the early years of schooling, but implementation has been inconsistent. Many schools lack trained teachers and adequate resources, while societal preference for English remains a significant barrier.

Programmes like USAID’s LEARN to Read initiative, which supports over three million children in Nigeria, demonstrate the potential of mother tongue instruction but require broader implementation to achieve meaningful impact.

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