By Nkechi Eze
In commemoration of the celebration of International Mother Language Day, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous languages in Nigeria.
In a statement signed Friday 21 February, by her special adviser media and publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Hon.Minister emphasized that language is a vital instrument for cultural identity, social inclusion, and sustainable development, serving as a lifeline that connects generations and fosters unity, noting that language inclusivity enhances access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly for rural women and marginalized groups.
She further noted that Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry remains committed to advancing policies and programs that safeguard cultural diversity, promote multilingual education, and support women’s active participation in nation-building.
She also called on stakeholders, including government agencies, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners, to invest in initiatives that preserve indigenous languages and promote literacy among women and girls.
International Mother Language Day, observed every February 21, aims to promote linguistic and cultural diversity, as well as multilingualism. UNESCO proclaimed this day in 1999 to honor the memory of language rights activists in Bangladesh who gave their lives for the cause.
