Endangered Species! Can languages become extinct too?
Although languages have always been endangered over time, they are now becoming extinct at a faster rate because of globalization and linguicide (language murder). Language extinction occurs when speakers switch to a language widely spoken or linked with social/economic power. This often results in language death.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) estimates that over 520 languages are spoken in Nigeria, and 27 are close to extinction already.
Being able to communicate in your mother tongue and at the same time being proficient in English are not mutually exclusive. Your competence in an indigenous and a foreign language is highly vital and recommendable.
Yes! You can speak your indigenous language comfortably and still sound “foreign” when speaking English. Yes, you can. Your indigenous language shouldn’t make you feel inferior. On the contrary, it’s an added advantage. When there’s an opportunity to promote your indigenous language, speak it well.
No language is superior to the other. Every language can perform excellently in whatever role it has been assigned.
Dear parents, please do not hesitate to equip your children with your native language. Speak it clearly to them whenever you have the opportunity; it helps them to be more creative. Furthermore, the ability to practice and hear it regularly is the most fantastic method to learn.
Rather than making your children feel shy of speaking a native language, you should create more learning opportunities for them. For example, they can attend language summer camps and classes to learn their native cultures and customs. This will encourage fluency in their mother tongue.
Language is the soul of culture; it is an indispensable tool for promoting and preserving cultural heritage through generations. No language is superior to the other. Every language can perform excellently in whatever role it has been assigned.
However, some people believe that since society is not static, people should accept dynamism in culture and language to embrace change and fraternize easily for speedy development. But, If we give in to this argument, it means that small ethnic groups will lose their cultural identities and languages. As a result, these ethnic groups may become lost tribes, confined only to the history books.
While trying to adapt to the fast pace of civilization, we must not forget our origin.
Be proud of your heritage!
Be proud of your origin!
Be proud of yourself!
REFERENCES
- Pulse Nigeria: There are 27 languages close to extinction in Nigeria.
- Babbel Magazine: Is It Possible To Forget Your Mother Tongue? An Introduction To Language Attrition. By Marion Mauri
- The Guardian: Total Recall: Your Mother-Tongue Language Is Not Vernacular! By Oludamola Adebowale.
- Wikipedia: Endangered Language
