The president of Nigerian Folklore Society, Dr. Bukar Usman has called for teaching in mother tongues to stem the tide of disappearing languages and the rich literature therein.
Usman stated this while delivering a keynote address at the 13th Literature in Northern Nigeria Conference, held at the University of Abuja recently.
Speaking on the theme, “Literature and Environment In Northern Nigeria,” he also called for sustained and all-round concerted effort to uplift the provision of Western education in Northern Nigeria.
According to him, there is also a need to encourage the habit of writing and production of books by organizing book-writing competitions in various fields.
“This should be both for instructions at the primary and secondary levels as well as books reflecting the cultures of the various communities in Northern Nigeria.
“This is a challenge we should take very seriously. It should be followed by teaching in mother tongues to stem the tide of disappearing languages and the rich literature therein.
“State Governments in Northern Nigeria and private individuals and organizations in the sub-region must rise to the occasion. Enough of empty promises and pronouncements. Governments must lead the way with all seriousness,” he added
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja (UniAbuja), Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, emphasised the importance of the Conference and the need to preserve our cultures.
He said, “It is so important for us to continue to deliberate on the culture we produce. Cultural programme is central to everything you do.
“The languages we speak reflect who we are. If you look at the way we were trained it is within the scope of our languages.”
