By Correspondent in Lokoja.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Prominent Egbira scholars, including former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Nuhu Yakubu, and the Provost of the National Defence College, Abuja, Professor Adam Ahmed Abere Okene, will gather in Okene, Kogi State, on December 26 for a critical lecture on preserving the Egbira language.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.
Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Tijani Anaje.
Organized by De Club 10 Kogi Central, the event will feature Professor Nuhu Yakubu as the keynote speaker, addressing the theme: “Salvaging Egbira Language from Extinction: What Must Be Done.”
Our correspondent gathered that the lecture, scheduled for Afims Hotel in Okene, aims to spotlight the urgent need to preserve the Egbira language amidst declining usage.
Other notable scholars set to contribute to the discussion include Professor Mariam Tenuche,Vice Chancellor , Prince Abubakar Audu University, PAAU, Any igba, and Professor Abdulhameed Onsachi.
Other scholars expected at the occasion are Dr. Godwin Oyibo (President of the Ebira People’s Association), Dr. Habiba Suleiman, Dr. Kabiru Abarkaka, and Alhaji S.S. Salami, Chairman of the Egbira Development Scheme.
According to the organizers, Alhaji Ahmed Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Egbiraland, will serve as the father of the day, while Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, will be the Special Guest of Honour. will also receive an award for good governance.
Other awardees include Professor M.S. Audu, Chief J.O. Omuya, Chief Edward Jatto, and Alhaji Hamza Lawal.
Speaking to the media, Alhaji Abdulrazak O. Leramoh, President of De Club 10, expressed concern over the neglect of Egbira language development, especially at the elementary education level.
He expressed concern that past efforts by authors to promote Egbira the language haf been hindered by a lack of institutional support.
The lecture seeks to mobilize action and foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the survival of the Egbira language for future generations.
Source:greenbreporters.com.
Edited by Dada Ahmed
