The Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has lauded the successful translation of the Holy Bible in his Ika Ibo dialect, even as he urged the preservation of African languages.
The governor made the remark today at the public presentation and dedication of the Holy Bible in Ika Ibo dialect at the Cathedral Church of Ascension, Boji Boji Owa, Ika North-East local government area of Delta State.
While commending the Ika Bible project producers, Governor Okowa stressed the importance of encouraging and inculcating indigenous languages in children.
“It has become very common to see parents communicating with their children in pidgin English rather than their mother tongue. It is important that we teach our children how to speak, read and write in Ika language.
“With the Ika Bible, we are making progress in the preservation of our language and the spreading of the word of God in Ika language,“ he said.
Primate of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, in a sermon at the event, thanked God for the several ways he was assisting Nigeria and congratulated Governor Okowa for his reelection victory.