As the world marks the 2022 International Mother Tongue Day, which seeks to promote the preservation and protection of all languages around the world, Abia born Interpol Systems Consultant, Sir Chikwe Udensi has urged parents especially in the Igbo speaking states to ensure they promote Igbo language and culture in their families.
Sir Udensi described as worrisome a situation where children of Igbo parents cannot speak their mother tongue or practice the Igbo culture.
Sir Udensi who featured in a radio programme, Open Parliament in Love FM Umuahia, streamed live on ABN Radio and TV on Wednesday urged parents to be ambassadors of Igbo language and culture so that it will be preserved by generations to come.
The Abia governorship aspirant who spoke in Igbo language further advised that the language should be made compulsory in primary and secondary schools in Igbo-speaking states.
He noted that one’s language and culture identifies him, adding that that is what distinguishes an Igbo man from the rest of the citizens of the country.
“Character of the children is moulded at the primary level. That is the formation stage of their character. That is why we have to ensure that Igbo language and culture must be fully imbibed as obtainable in other climes.
“Anyone enrolled in any school in Abia and elsewhere in Igbo land should be thought to understand and speak Igbo. Our people in Yoruba land and in the North learn the culture and language of their host regions. Anyone in Igbo land, attending primary and secondary school should be thought and examined in Igbo language.
“It is the responsibility of the government to ensure this. While the parents are doing their own bit at home, the government is expected to roll out policies that will ensure that Igbo language is taught in the schools on daily basis for preservation and promotion of our mother tongue” he said.