The Threat of Indigenous Language Endangerment and Its Revitalization in the Contemporary Society: The Case of the Igbo Language

Abstract

Language has been identified as a tunnel through which culture, idea, thought etc. are transmitted from one generation to another. Indigenous languages are indispensable cultural legacies in which all forms of human interactions can be carried out. Igbo is one of the indigenous languages that is called official language and yet facing the threat of endangerment. This is a review paper that examines the threat of indigenous language endangerment and the need to revive its use in the contemporary society. Great emphasis is on the Igbo language that is seriously fading and the need for its revitalisation is germane. Thus, non-revival of these Nigerian indigenous languages means gradual extinction. This study reviews literatures on indigenous languages. From this review, the fact seen is that Igbo language stands the risk of gradual extinction if urgent measures are not taken by all stakeholders concerned to arrest the dwindling fortune of indigenous languages. This researcher therefore calls on individuals, parents, schools and governments to put their efforts towards forestalling language endangerment and possible extinction of the indigenous languages. This can be achieved by reviving its use through vigorous and regular presentation, encouragement maintenance programmes and mass media.