Nigeria’s Indigenous languages are not just means of communication; they are the carriers of our identity, history, values, and worldview. These languages embody the wisdom of our ancestors and the cultural memory of our communities. But recent legislative measures enforcing a ban on Indigenous languages in Nigerian schools threaten this invaluable heritage and endanger the future of our linguistic diversity.

Educators, linguists, and cultural leaders have repeatedly highlighted the importance of language in education. Numerous studies have shown that mother-tongue-based education enhances children's cognitive development and academic performance. It fosters a better understanding of complex subjects, boosts self-esteem, and strengthens community ties. By excluding Indigenous languages, we not only disregard these benefits but also risk creating a generation disconnected from their cultural roots.

The United Nations has declared 2022 to 2032 as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, recognizing the urgent need to preserve Indigenous languages globally. This underscores the pivotal moment for Nigeria to embrace its linguistic heritage rather than erode it.

I urge the Ministry of Education to reverse the ban on Indigenous languages and to implement Mother-Tongue-Based Multi-Lingual Education (MTB-MLE). Such a program has been successfully adopted in various multicultural societies, leading to improved educational outcomes and greater cultural cohesion.

We must act now to safeguard the rich tapestry of languages that contribute to Nigeria’s diversity. Let us cherish and preserve this legacy for future generations. Please sign this petition to ensure that every Nigerian child has the right to learn in their native language and to preserve the cultural wealth of our nation.