Nonye Soludo, Anambra’s first lady, urged Nigerians to prioritize their mother tongue. She described it as the emblem of socio-cultural participation. Soludo issued this message in a press statement on February 21, 2026. Furthermore she emphasized that individuals must protect their linguistic heritage.
Treasure of Cultural Identity
Soludo stated that a mother language represented a treasure everyone should carry with pride. She added that no one could protect it better than its owners. Additionally she lamented that mother languages disappeared quickly because people did not celebrate them enough.
Urge to Speak Boldly
Soludo encouraged Nigerians to speak their mother tongue without fear, limitation, or apology. She explained, “There’s no shame in speaking your Mother Tongue and celebrating its beauty and uniqueness.” Moreover she warned that cultures remained incomplete without reflecting the distinctiveness of community languages.
Significance of Language
Soludo affirmed that language served as a genuine identity. She declared, “Your mother tongue is your emblem of socio-cultural participation. Let no one tell you that you can’t speak it.” In addition, she urged, “Speak it. Cherish it. Be proud of it.”
Context of International Mother Language Day
The statement coincided with International Mother Language Day, observed annually on February 21. UNESCO announced this day on November 17, 1999, to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.
The United Nations General Assembly recognized it formally through Resolution 56/26 in 2002. Moreover, Soludo’s message aligned with global efforts to foster multilingualism.
Impact on Nigerian Communities
Soludo particularly addressed the Igbo community but extended her call to all Nigerians. She highlighted that embracing native languages strengthened cultural bonds. Thus her words aimed to revive pride in linguistic roots across the nation.
