The one-month intensive Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme (NILP) of the South-West Zone of National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) ended on Friday, 30th August, 2013, with a fun-filled ceremony held at the zonal office in Akure, Ondo State.
Speaking at the occasion, the Zonal Head, Mr. Ohi Ojo, said that he was particularly delighted that the programme had afforded participants the opportunity to appreciate our indigenous languages, such as Hausa, Igbo, Izon and Yoruba that were taught.
He maintained that the NILP had succeeded in bringing peace to the society, stressing: “This annual programme has succeeded in brokering peace among citizens in South-West, especially in the market and among transport workers, thus, contributing to the sustenance of the much-needed peace in the region.”
According to him, several groups showed interest in this year’s programme but could not participate due to the challenge of funds, expressing hope that more people will participate next year, as language still remained a potent tool for cultural preservation and national integration.
In his contributi
on, Mr. Mohammed Babangida, Head of Internal Audit, appreciated management for coming up with such laudable programme, and also commended the students for being able to learn and comprehend a second language within such a short period.
Mr. Alfanla Mustapha, of the Research and Documentation Dept, NICO, quoting Aristotle, who said, “shun idleness; it’s a rust that attaches itself to a brilliant metal,” appealed to management to extend the programme beyond the one month period, noting that as a participant, he had learnt a lot from this year’s edition.
On his part, Mr. Ofuafo Emowherha applauded management for making this year’s edition more practical-oriented, saying that as an Urhobo man, he could now confidently introduce himself in Yoruba language.
Furthermore, the Head of Budget Unit, NICO, Mr. Gideon Adegbaju, thanked the zonal head for a successful NILP, equally adding his voice to the continuity and extension of the programme beyond one month, and that the resource persons should be ready for him as he would be disturbing them to learn more and improve his knowledge of the indigenous language.
In her vote of thanks, the Head, Admin and Human Resources, Mrs. Adesuwa Eze, thanked members of staff for their unalloyed support and cooperation towards the success of this year’s NILP, saying that with the policy direction of management, things will continue to get better.
The event was spiced with drama presentations from different classes to showcase what they had learnt during the one-month intensive programme, just as members of staff were treated to a sumptuous meal funded by the resource persons.
Olumide Akinsote
Corporate Affairs
NICO SWZ