NICO Kicks Off Fresh Indigenous Language Programme, Renews Call for Better Government Funding

By our Correspondent

In a bid to sustain citizens’ interest in speaking their mother tongues, the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) has commenced another round of its one-month free Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the programme in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said the training would cover fourteen Nigerian languages.

Otunba Ajiboye, who was represented by the Director of Orientation and Cultural Affairs, Mr. Segun Adegbaju, noted that the programme is taking place simultaneously across the country with over two thousand participants.

“The one-month annual Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme is aimed at promoting the use of mother tongue, especially among the younger generation, who tend to prioritise English as their main medium of communication. This is not ideal, as indigenous languages are vital in preserving individual identity and promoting culture, peace, unity, and national development,” he explained.

Expressing concern over inadequate funding, the NICO Executive Secretary reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to harnessing culture for national progress.

“Our activities are underfunded by the Federal Government, yet they are crucial in using language and culture as tools for implementing national development programmes. Without promoting peace and unity through culture, meaningful development cannot be achieved,” he emphasized.

Otunba Ajiboye also highlighted the need for stronger efforts to revamp Nigeria’s cultural values to ensure lasting unity and peaceful coexistence.

Participants at the programme commended NICO for its consistency in safeguarding indigenous languages from extinction. They also called for increased funding to enable the Institute to fully achieve its mandate.

Certificates will be awarded to participants at the end of the one-month free language training.