By Solomon OKPO.
Uyo, The National Library of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Branch, joined the global community in celebrating International Mother Language Day, highlighting the importance of linguistic diversity, multilingualism, and cultural heritage.
The event, held at the branch office in Uyo, brought together students, educators, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the richness of local languages through various engaging activities.
The program featured language exhibitions showcasing indigenous dialects and scripts, a mother language recital where students presented poems and stories in their native tongues, and a language quiz that tested participants’ knowledge of local languages. The celebration also included vibrant cultural displays and traditional songs, reflecting the deep-rooted heritage of Akwa Ibom people.
A total of 42 participants attended the event, including 32 children (21 boys and 11 girls), eight adults (six women and two men), and two guest speakers—one male and one female.
Renowned publisher, Mr. Idara Usendok, delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous languages. He encouraged attendees to embrace their mother tongues as a means of sustaining cultural identity and passing it on to future generations.
The celebration successfully reinforced the significance of linguistic diversity and cultural pride in Akwa Ibom State, leaving participants with a renewed sense of appreciation for their native languages.
