COMMENTARY ON INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY (FEBRUARY 21)*

By Joseph Obunse

Every year on February 21, the world observes International Mother Language Day, a day dedicated to celebrating linguistic diversity, cultural identity, and the promotion of indigenous languages.

This year’s celebration carries the theme:
“Languages Matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day.”
The theme marks twenty-five years of global commitment to protecting and promoting mother languages as vital instruments of identity, education, and sustainable development.
Proclaimed by UNESCO,

International Mother Language Day reminds us that language is the soul of a people. As the Igbo proverb says, “Asụsụ bụ njirimara mmadụ”—language defines who we are.

In Anambra State, this global message resonates strongly through the policy that encourages the use of Igbo language every Wednesday in public offices and institutions. This initiative is a clear demonstration of the state government’s resolve to preserve the Igbo language and pass it on to future generations. “Igbo adịghị efu, ma a zụọ ya nke ọma.”

By promoting Igbo in official communication, Anambra State aligns with the ideals of International Mother Language Day—ensuring inclusion, strengthening cultural pride, and safeguarding indigenous languages from extinction. It also reflects the belief that development is most meaningful when it speaks the language of the people. “Okwu si n’obi pụta, ọ na-eru n’obi.”

As we commemorate this year’s International Mother Language Day, Ndi Anambra are encouraged to speak Igbo boldly, teach it to the younger generation, and cherish it as a priceless heritage, not only on Wednesdays, but every day.
Our language matters.
Asụsụ anyị bụ nganga anyị.
Asụsụ anyị bụ ọdịniru anyị.

Joseph is of the Ministry of Information Anambra State