International Literacy Day: Advocates Call for Emphasis on Local Language Literacy
On September 24, 2024, during the celebration of International Literacy Day in Lagos, stakeholders emphasized the importance of promoting literacy in local languages.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
In observance of the 2024 International Literacy Day, prominent stakeholders have urged Nigerians to promote effective communication, reading, and writing in local languages. The call was made by Mrs. Ifeoma Esiri, Co-Founder of Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), and Prof. Veronica Chinwe Anunobi, the National Librarian.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” highlights the need for children to communicate effectively in their indigenous languages, both in schools and at home.
During the event held at the National Library annexe in Lagos, Mrs. Esiri expressed concern over the declining fluency of children in their mother tongues. She emphasized that mastering local languages enhances knowledge about culture, identity, and career opportunities. "Language is a vital aspect of culture, and when a people lose their language, they lose their culture," she stated.
Mrs. Esiri called on governments to implement policies that encourage the use of local languages, underscoring that proficiency in indigenous languages does not hinder the ability to learn other languages. “When our children cannot speak our tongues, how would they even converse in proverbs, a clever method our elders use for communication?” she added.
In an interview, Prof. Anunobi highlighted that literacy is essential for creating a just and sustainable society. "Literacy is a ladder to prosperity and unlocking potential. Policymakers must prioritize literacy and establish libraries for lifelong learning," she said.
Prof. Anunobi noted that UNESCO has declared 2022-2032 as a decade for the promotion of indigenous languages, recognizing their critical role in societal development. She stressed that literacy encompasses more than education and is tied to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The day’s activities featured a book reading session by 87-year-old Pa Newton Jibunoh, who shared his experiences of crossing the Sahara Desert four times. He encouraged children to stay focused and hardworking, emphasizing that literacy extends beyond formal education.
As stakeholders push for a renewed focus on local language literacy, they remind Nigerians of the importance of preserving their linguistic heritage for future generations.
