Adichie Sounds Alarm on Colonial Legacy’s Impact on Cultural Identity

Adichie Sounds Alarm on Colonial Legacy’s Impact on Cultural Identity

ESTHER SALIFU, Abuja 

Renowned author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has urged Nigerian parents to teach their children indigenous languages like Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa, warning that prioritizing foreign tongues such as French and English over native ones reflects a colonial hangover that threatens African cultural identity.

Speaking at her launch of her latest book titled “DreamCount”, She attributed the decline in indigenous language use to the psychological impact of colonialism, which she argued distorted African perceptions of their own cultural value.

“Colonialism’s most dangerous legacy is the mindset it left behind  the belief that our own traditions and languages are somehow lesser,” Adichie noted.

She stressed the importance of teaching children their native languages before enrolling them in foreign language classes. “If your child doesn’t speak your language, then it’s time to cancel that French lesson and start with your own. That’s what truly builds their confidence,” she said.

Highlighting the deeper significance of language, the acclaimed writer described it as a key to identity, history, and self-respect.

By teaching children their mother tongues, she said, parents are not just passing on words they’re giving them a strong sense of cultural belonging and pride.