NICO is committed to improving the knowledge of the native language among the Corps members

The National Institute of Cultural Orientation (NICO) has expressed its determination to continue with its new initiative aimed at sensitizing Corps members across the federation to foster interest in learning our indigenous languages.

Addressing Corps members during the third edition of the Nigeria Indigenous Languages ​​Programme (NILP) held at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Kubwa, Abuja, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NICO, Biodun Ajiboye, said the initiative aimed at promoting indigenous languages ​​among Nigerian youths.

Ajiboye, who was represented by Mfongang Helen, announced that under the programme, corps members would be able to learn Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba languages ​​online using platforms such as WhatsApp and WPS.

“This initiative aims to equip participants with basic communication skills in their chosen languages ​​by the end of the four-week training period. To ensure high-quality learning, the Institute has hired professionally qualified individuals to conduct the classes.”

“After the program ends, a Google form will be made available to collect feedback from participants.
“In addition, there are plans to propose the establishment of NICO Indigenous Language Clubs at the Community Development Service (CDS) level. These clubs would provide a platform for continuous learning, enhancing the proficiency of corps members in languages,” he said.

He said corps members are encouraged to fill out forms, indicate their language preferences and provide phone numbers and email addresses for further communication. He added that participants can choose up to two languages ​​to learn during the program.

“This initiative is an important step in preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage while also enhancing the cultural competence of its youth,” Ajiboye stressed.

Earlier, the NYSC State Coordinator for FCT, Shokpeka Winifred, explained that during the orientation camp, a series of lectures are held to refresh the knowledge of the corps members, prepare them and develop their capacity to dream and actualize those dreams.

“We offer language classes because we have discovered that many Nigerian youth, perhaps because of inter-tribal marriages, no longer speak their native languages. At NYSC, we have language classes to ensure that even basic greetings and market bargaining skills are taught. When you can communicate with someone in their language, it strengthens the sense of community.”

Winifred encouraged the participants to take the training seriously and also pass on their knowledge to younger people to bring about positive change in society.