By Palma Ileye
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has called for the need to preserve and promote indigenous languages, which serve as the bedrock of heritage, knowledge systems, and collective progress.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim in a press release issued by Mr. Jonathan Eze, Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Publicity stated that the Mother language, was a vital instrument for cultural identity, social inclusion and sustainable development for any society.
She stated, “On this International Mother Language Day, I join the global community in celebrating the power of language as a vital instrument for cultural identity, social inclusion, and sustainable development.
“This day reminds us of the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous languages, which serve as the bedrock of our heritage, knowledge systems, and collective progress.”
She said that language was not merely a tool for communication adding that it was a lifeline that connects generations, foster unity, and ensure that no one was left behind in national development.
“Language is not merely a tool for communication; it is a lifeline that connects generations, fosters unity, and ensures that no one is left behind in our national development. As we strive for gender equality, women and girls must be empowered to learn, express themselves, and engage meaningfully in their communities using their mother tongues.
“Language inclusivity enhances access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly for rural women and marginalized groups.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we remain committed to advancing policies and programs that safeguard cultural diversity, promote multilingual education, and support women’s active participation in nation-building. By embracing our linguistic heritage, we are securing the future of our children and reinforcing the values of inclusion and respect.
“As the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, I call on all stakeholders government agencies, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners to continue investing in initiatives that preserve our indigenous languages and promote literacy among women and girls. Let us work together to ensure that language remains a bridge, not a barrier, to empowerment and national development,” she explained.
