The annual 1 month intensive Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme organized by the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) across her Zonal and State offices has come to an end in Minna State of the Institute on 31st August, 2023 at the U K Bello Arts Theatre, Minna.
The Executive Secretary/CEO, NICO, Alhaji Ado Muhammad Yahuza represented by the State Coordinator, NICO Minna, Mrs. Ndukwe Olufunke Iyabo addressed the participants that the importance of organizing language programme is to give priority to the smaller languages thereby preserving the cultural heritage of such languages.
He said indigenous languages have been relegated to the background where we have the unfortunate situation where parents hardly communicate with their children and wards in their mother tongue while others are not proud to speak in their languages saying that how could one identify himself with a language he cannot speak.
Yahuza further explained that culture is the bedrock of development of a nation. “Your culture and the language you speak serves as your identity while it distinguishes a group of people from others is the most powerful instrument for protection.
Similarly, the Head of Commercial unit in NICO Minna, Miss Justina Auta John on her own contribution briefed the participants on the various programmes of NICO which includes National and Postgraduate Diploma in Cultural Administration among others.
In his goodwill message, DSI, Nigerian Immigration Service, Danazumi Muhammad on behalf of other participants appreciated the management of NICO for working tirelessly in promoting and preserving the Nigeria rich cultural values.
Danazumi also promised to convey to the State Controller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Niger State Command on the need to partner NICO to host the next edition of the Nigeria Indigenous Language Programme in the Barracks in their command.
The participants took turns to make presentations in the various languages they learnt .
Certificates were issued at the end of the programme
Corporate Affairs
NICO, Minna.