OUR LANGUAGE, OUR IDENTITY: A CALL FOR PRESERVATION OF THE IGBO LANGUAGE IN A CHANGING WORLD

Apart from being a means of communication, language also expresses people’s worldview, culture and identity. The Igbos in the southeastern part of Nigeria are known for speaking the Igbo language as a means of communication. However, there is a very surprising lapse and shift among the Igbos toward Igbo language usage. This work was born out of a global shift of languages to foreign languages, especially the English language and this brought about a neglect toward the native language of which the Igbo language is affected. This may be due to globalization and the privileges attached to foreign languages over the native language. Hence, this paper demands the urgent preservation and revival of the Igbo language in this world of digital technological changes because the Igbo language is a vital component of the cultural identity and continuity of the Igbos. This study uses Carl Rogers’ human-centered and sociolinguistic theory (perspective) to explore the emotional, cultural, and social implications of language loss, emphasizing how this can lead to the loss of Igbo identity. Therefore, it examines ways for indigenous Igbo language sustenance and highlights the reasons behind the importance of reshaping the youths’ attitude in restoring Igbo societal pride. Finally, the work calls for the Igbo community to take collective responsibility in restoring the Igbo language. The study recommends the constant use of the native Igbo language in communities and in Diaspora to boost Igbo cultural identity and preservation.