What’s with Nigerians trying so hard to ensure that the Nigerian language is lost on the incoming generation?
Yes, the migration frenzy is understandable. With leaders turning the economy into a cruel joke and life becoming increasingly unbearable, it’s no surprise that Nigerians are leaving for the West in droves, often with no intention of returning except temporarily. Survival instincts are universal, so that’s okay.
But here’s where it gets troubling:
Nigerians who consciously prevent their kids from speaking their local dialects. This isn’t just negligence; it’s a deliberate erasure of cultural heritage, a decision that could hasten the extinction of our native languages in no time. What’s worse? This trend isn’t confined to the diaspora. Even Nigerians at home are guilty of this cultural neglect.
Let’s unpack this.
Research supports the language critical period hypothesis, which suggests that the first few years of life, especially before puberty, are crucial for language acquisition. Children exposed to a language during this time absorb it effortlessly, mastering pronunciation, tone, and cultural nuances in ways adults struggle to replicate. Conversely, if a child isn’t introduced to their local dialect by age five, achieving native-like fluency later becomes significantly harder. Language, much like identity, is best ingrained early.
Does that now make sense regarding the importance of speaking our language to children, even from when they are in the womb? Come on, they can always pick up the lingua franca from the outside world. Let the local dialect reign supreme at home.
Anyway, I celebrate figures like Anthony Joshua, who, despite living most of his life in the UK, takes pride in teaching his son Yoruba. I once came across a video of him doing so a few years ago and I applauded this. Then there are legends like Wole Soyinka, who didn’t grow up speaking English but whose mastery of the language now astonishes even native speakers. These examples prove that embracing one’s native language doesn’t hinder proficiency in others; if anything, it enriches it.
So, here’s my heartfelt plea: Don’t abandon your roots. Let your kids speak your local dialect.
Even if Nigeria’s challenges have embittered you, don’t let that bitterness rob your offspring of their linguistic inheritance. Your local dialect is more than just words, it’s a vessel of identity, history, and pride. It doesn’t matter if you’re living in Lagos, London, or Los Angeles; your language deserves a place in your children’s lives.
Look to the Israelites for inspiration.
Despite centuries of exile, they preserved their Hebrew language, a cultural lifeline that played a pivotal role in their national revival. Similarly, your language holds the keys to your people’s resilience and strength.
Don’t let it slip into oblivion.
Born as Titilayo Oladimeji, I have been known by the nickname Titipetral for nearly two decades. I am a Financial Advisor at a reputable financial institution in Lagos, Nigeria, with over 10 years of experience in Financial Advisory and Credit Analysis. I am also an author and the founder of Titipetral Publishers, a duly registered publishing company.
In addition, I lead the Titipetral Empowerment and Development Network (TEDN), a duly registered philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting underprivileged girls, boys, women, and men in the Alimosho area, Nigeria’s most populated local government, focusing on serving the underserved.
For inquiries or collaboration, you can reach me at Titilayooladimeji@titipetral.com or titipetral@gmail.com.