Parents Urged To Encourage Use Of Mother Tongue

The management of Overcomers Academy, Abule-Egba, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria, has called on parents to encourage their children to learn and speak their local dialects so as not to lose their cultural identity.

Speaking during the cultural day celebrations of the school recently, the Head Teacher, Solaja Ayobola, said that though English Language is a standard language of communication in Nigeria, local dialects should not be allowed to go into extinction.

According to him, “our dialects give us a sense of belonging and identify us with our roots, customs, traditions and culture.

“In addition to English Language, that is used in the setting of examinations, communications etc., local dialects should also be incorporated into our education curriculum,” he said.

The cultural day celebrations saw students of the school from various parts of the country dressed in different attires, spoke in their local dialects and also prepared local delicacies.

Mrs. Oshinowo, a staff of the school said that the celebration is an annual event which reminds the children about their culture.

A Senior Secondary School, SSS 2, student of the school, Jonathan Egbuewe told P.M.NEWS that he has benefited immensely from the annual event as it reminds him of his roots in Kwale, Delta State, southsouth Nigeria.

“I am proud to be identified with my people. I can speak my dialect fluently, dress and prepare our meals unlike some students who know little or nothing about their people,” Egbuewe stated.

—Emmanuel Udom