A Bold Stand for African Languages
Nigerian musician and cultural advocate Charles Onyeabor has ignited a powerful conversation about the value of indigenous languages in Africa. In a recent statement, Onyeabor challenged the widespread belief that proficiency in English is a measure of intelligence, urging Africans to embrace and take pride in their native languages as a vital part of their cultural identity.
The Problem with Prioritizing English
Onyeabor didn’t hold back in criticizing the societal bias that elevates English fluency over African languages. “Perfect English is not a mark of intelligence; it’s a mark of linguistic ability,” he said. “We Africans were programmed to believe that the more you speak better English, it then means you are intelligent.”
He went further, adding a touch of humor to drive his point home: “I know a lot of flawless English-speaking guys and girls who are not as smart as a goat sef.”
A Call to Embrace Cultural Roots
Onyeabor emphasized the importance of Africans reconnecting with their linguistic heritage. “You should be ashamed of yourself if you are Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, or any other tribe, and you are unable to speak your native languages fluently but would rather speak another country’s language,” he stated.
He also drew comparisons to other countries, noting, “Go to France; they do not give a damn about English or any other language. Even Italians don’t care about any other language but theirs.”
The Irony of Language Perception
Onyeabor highlighted a striking double standard in how language proficiency is viewed. While foreigners are often praised for attempting to speak African languages, Africans are frequently ridiculed for not speaking English perfectly. “In Nigeria, you will hear people say things like, ‘He/she can’t even speak good English,’ which is a way to insult people,” he observed.
He proposed a shift in perspective: “I think it should be the other way round; people should start saying things like, ‘You can’t even speak your language,’ and not insult or abuse anyone who can’t speak another person’s language.”
Why This Matters
Onyeabor’s message is a timely reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating African languages. In a world where globalization often overshadows local cultures, his call to action encourages Africans to reclaim their linguistic identity and challenge outdated notions of intelligence and worth.
Why You Should Care
Language is more than just a means of communication—it’s a cornerstone of culture and identity. By valuing indigenous languages, Africans can foster a deeper connection to their heritage and challenge the colonial mindset that still lingers in many societies.