For the Nigerian Who Doesn't Speak Any Nigerian Languages, I Feel Your Pain
I'm anticipating two major responses to the scene above: 1) vigorous nodding in shared understanding about how native language fluency is policed in Nigeria (or anywhere really), or 2) *blank face* from folks who don't get it, and agree whole-heartedly with the officer. To the latter category, this post is really for you.
Earlier this year, I wrote an article titled, "What Kind of African Doesn't Speak Any African Languages? Me.", in which I proposed people stop using indigenous language fluency as the yardstick by which to decide one's cultural belonging, or at the very least, refrain from using it as a way to invalidate people's identities, given that culture comprises many elements, not just language. The ended up sparking quite a bit of online debate - it seems that language as it pertains to cultural assimilation is quite the conversation starter.
I reference this article because a few points stood out to me from the conversations inspired by the piece and now, also, from having to navigate Nigeria as someone who doesn't speak any native Nigerian languages: Read More
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