Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has highlighted the importance of promoting Nigeria’s local languages and culture to foster national development. Soyinka made the statement on Monday after visiting the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts at the University of Ilorin, where he participated in activities marking the university’s inaugural Cultural Week.
During his visit, Soyinka stressed that language is an integral part of a people’s identity, calling for a greater focus on teaching and preserving Nigeria’s diverse local languages. “A language is a repository of a people’s community and heritage,” Soyinka explained. “It is vital that we encourage young people to understand and speak the languages of their ancestors.”
He acknowledged the value of learning foreign languages, which are globally recognized, but emphasized that this should not come at the expense of Nigeria’s local languages. “We must learn to read, write, and innovate in our local languages to advance our nation,” he added. Soyinka urged Nigerians to think, compose, and even conduct research in their native languages before turning to foreign tongues.
In his call for cultural revival, Soyinka suggested blending traditional ways of living with modern practices to achieve a balanced and progressive society. He recommended introducing local foods, songs, and traditional problem-solving methods into everyday life. “Ask your mothers how they managed things in the past and use those methods to teach your children,” Soyinka advised. This, he believes, would help Nigerians better understand their origins and solve contemporary issues effectively.
Soyinka also proposed making local languages a compulsory subject in schools, urging Nigerians to take pride in their cultural heritage. “We must cherish our culture and traditions to maintain our dignity and values,” he said.
In response, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, described Soyinka’s visit as a significant moment for the institution. He expressed the university’s pride in hosting such an esteemed figure and emphasized the alignment of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts with Soyinka’s dedication to the arts and humanities.
Egbewole shared that the Centre, which offers diploma, undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, was designed to promote cultural scholarship and contribute to global discourse. He expressed optimism that the Centre would grow into a leading institution for cultural studies worldwide, particularly with Soyinka’s endorsement and support.
