Mother Language - by Lifeofalmaroof

International Mother Language Day is more than a celebration of languages; it is a celebration of identity, culture, and heritage. Proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 and observed every February 21, this day reminds us that language is not just a means of communication, it is the soul of a people. In Yoruba culture, we say, “Èdè ẹni ni ìdánimọ̀ ẹni” (one’s language is one’s identity). A mother tongue is the first voice we hear and the foundation of our understanding of the world. It carries our proverbs, our wisdom, our songs, and our values.There is a powerful Yoruba proverb that says, “Ọmọ tí a kò kọ́ ni yóò gbé ilé tí a kọ́ tà” (a child who is not taught will sell the house that was built). Education is not complete without cultural and linguistic knowledge. When we fail to teach our children their mother language, we risk losing our heritage.Another proverb teaches us, “Bí a bá gbagbé orírun, a gbagbé ara wa” (when we forget our source, we forget ourselves). Language is that source. It shapes how we think, how we reason, and how we relate to others.In vibrant Lagos State, especially in the bustling area of Oshodi, language lives and breathes every day. From market women advertising their goods in Yoruba to conductors calling out destinations, from respectful greetings like “Ẹ káàárọ̀” to elders reciting òríkì at naming ceremonies (Ìsomọlórúkọ), language holds the community together.Cultural practices in Lagos, including traditional weddings and festivals like the colourful Eyo Festival, depend on indigenous language for their true meaning. The chants, prayers, and praise poetry lose their depth when removed from their original tongue.We also say, “Ìwé kì í pa ọgbọ́n run” (education does not destroy wisdom). Learning global languages like English is important, but it should not erase our mother tongue. Instead, education should strengthen our identity while expanding our opportunities.International Mother Language Day reminds us that multilingualism is a strength. A child grounded in their mother language grows with confidence, cultural pride, and intellectual depth.From the busy streets of Oshodi to homes across Lagos, let us proudly declare: “Èdè wa ni ìyebíye wa” (our language is our treasure).Because when we protect our mother language, we protect our history, our culture, and our future. In conclusion, On this International Mother Language Day, let us understand that preserving our mother tongue is not a choice, it is a responsibility. Because the future we are building will only be strong if it is rooted in the language of our past.

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