By joshua 
The Prioritisation of Foreign Languages: A Hindrance to African Cultural Empowerment and Language
By:
Farouk Ozigi Onimisi
(The White Orator)
I wrote this sometimes ago while in NYSC Orientation Camp, Borno State
The linguistic landscape of Africa is a complex tapestry, woven from the threads of indigenous languages, colonial legacies, and globalised influences. However, a disturbing trend has emerged, where foreign languages are prioritised over indigenous ones, perpetuating a cycle of cultural erosion and intellectual colonisation. This phenomenon has far-reaching consequences, threatening the very fabric of African identity and autonomy.
One of the most insidious effects of this trend is the gradual loss of cultural heritage. As indigenous languages are neglected, the traditions, customs, and histories they embody begin to fade, leaving behind a void that cannot be filled by foreign tongues. The consequences of this cultural amnesia are dire, as Africans risk losing touch with their roots and the unique perspectives that define them.
Moreover, the dependence on foreign languages has created a power dynamic that reinforces Western superiority. By adopting the languages of their former colonisers, Africans inadvertently perpetuate the notion that Western cultures are superior to their own. This has led to a cultural cringe, where Africans view their own languages and traditions as inferior, further entrenching the dominance of foreign powers.
The education system has also played a significant role in perpetuating this trend. By prioritising foreign languages in schools, African governments inadvertently reinforce the notion that indigenous languages are inferior. This has led to a brain drain, where African scholars and intellectuals are forced to express themselves in languages that are not their own, stifling innovation and creativity.
Furthermore, the neglect of indigenous languages has resulted in a loss of cultural resources. Indigenous languages hold unique insights and knowledge, born from the experiences and traditions of African communities. By neglecting these languages, Africans risk losing access to valuable cultural capital, further marginalising themselves in the global arena.
To break free from this cycle of cultural domination, Africans must take steps to revitalise and promote indigenous languages, more reasons I wrote the unpublished novel, ‘Idaneku (The World Beyond).’ This can be achieved through language documentation and preservation, education system reforms, and encouraging language use in formal settings. Moreover, Africans must reclaim their linguistic heritage, recognising the value and significance of their indigenous languages.
In conclusion, the prioritisation of foreign languages over indigenous ones has had a devastating impact on African cultural empowerment. By recognising the harm caused by this trend and taking steps to promote indigenous languages, Africans can reclaim their cultural autonomy and forge a more authentic, self-determined path. Only then can they break free from the shackles of cultural domination and take their rightful place on the global stage.