- The Problem: Nigeria’s major languages are losing ground.
- The Solution: Book adaptation to make these languages engaging for kids.
- The Players: Accessible Publishers, Room to Read, and language experts.
- The Goal: To boost literacy and cultural pride.
Nigeria’s Languages in Crisis?
For years, experts have warned that Nigeria’s indigenous languages are at risk. Globalization and the dominance of English are pushing these languages to the margins. But hope is on the horizon!
Accessible Publishers to the Rescue!
Accessible Publishers Ltd, known for its innovative online learning platform, is tackling this challenge head-on. They’ve launched the Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project, a bold initiative to restore the glory of Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba. The goal? To make translated books accessible to students and teachers, sparking a passion for these languages.
Room to Read: A Powerful Partnership
This isn’t a solo mission. Accessible Publishers has teamed up with Room to Read, a Kenya-based organization, to make this project a reality. Together, they’re working with Nigerian linguistic scholars to ensure the translations are top-notch. The initiative involves language experts, educational bodies like NERDC, UBEC, and government officials, showcasing its national importance.
Words from the Wise
At the launch workshop, Mr. Gbadega Adedapo, MD/CEO of Accessible Publishers Ltd, described the project as “igniting a movement” to reshape education and renew linguistic heritage. He praised Room to Read for recognizing the importance of local languages and cultures in learning.
Why Mother Tongues Matter
Here’s why this project is so crucial: Studies show that children learn best when they’re taught in their mother tongue. It boosts their confidence, improves their cognitive skills, and strengthens their cultural identity. By making learning materials available in Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba, Accessible Publishers is empowering a new generation of Nigerian learners.
Meet the Language Experts
The project has assembled a team of top-notch language experts, including:
- Professor Tyjani Shehu Almajir Osita Gerald (Hausa, Bayero University, Kano)
- Dr. Suleeyman Hamisu Aliyu (Hausa, Federal College of Education, Abeokuta)
- Dr. Nwagbo Osita Gerald (Igbo, University of Lagos)
- Mrs. Abdulazeez Umma Sa’ade (Hausa, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo)
- Dr. Aboderin Oluwakemi Adebisi (Yoruba, Tai Solarin University of Education)
- Dr. Clement Adeniyi Akangbe (Yoruba, University of Ibadan)
- Dr. Ebele Okafor (Linguistics, University of Lagos)
These experts emphasized the urgency of this project, believing it should have started years ago. Dr. Akangbe highlighted the effective collaboration between Room to Read and Accessible Publishers, ensuring both quality and cultural relevance.
The Impact on Education
Mrs. Abdulazeez shared how the training provided invaluable insights into literacy theory, cultural adaptation, and child psychology. She plans to incorporate these learnings into her university lectures and writing practice, emphasizing the value of localized storytelling in cognitive development.
A Call to Action
This project isn’t just about preserving languages; it’s about empowering communities and fostering a love of learning. By adapting books into Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba, Accessible Publishers is opening doors to a brighter future for Nigerian children.
About The Author
