Delta Govt, University Collaborate On Indigenous Languages

Delta State government has pleaded that Nigerians, especially Deltans, should not allow indigenous languages to face total extinction.

Governor Sheriff Oboreveori stated this on Friday in Agbor, lka south local government area during the celebration of the second founder’s day/ Ika Language and Cultural Research Centre of the University of Delta, Agbor.

Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, the governor called on everyone to support the preservation of indigenous culture and languages, adding that lka language, apart from being very dear to the state, is a comprehensive study to be preserved.

“There should be emphasis on youth development; they should exhibit their talents, discourage despair and change the status quo of the university. The school has justified reasons for its creation; encouraging many youths to demand education and avoiding crimes,” he said.

The vice chancellor, Prof Stella Chiemeke called for the maximum utilisation of the General Hospital, Mother and Child Hospital and Diagnostic Centre into the University of Delta Teaching Centre to advance medical education in the state.

According to her, the hospitals in Agbor and Owa Alero, would equally fulfil the core requirement of accrediting the Medicine (MBBS) programme in the next two years.

“The utilisation of General Hospital and Advance Diagnostic Centre in Agbor, as teaching centre along with the trauma centre as a takeoff location for the proposed medical school has undoubtedly showcased the commitment of the Delta State government towards advancing medical education in our state.

“However, it is evident that in order to attain our goal of accreditation for the MBBS programme, the University of Delta must have a designated teaching centre,” Chiemeke stated.

Chairman of the occasion/chairman, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Barr Chiedu Ebie assured that the commission as an intervention body was ready to play its roles and to partner institutions when their needs are identified.

Group managing director of Zenith Bank, Dr Ebenezer Oniagwu, while giving a lecture on “Transforming Potentials into Prosperity,” revealed that only the youths can lead Nigeria to prosperity.