A survey of language diversity and vitality in Edo State

Abstract

Language is central to national development, cultural identity, and education. This study investigates the linguistic landscape of Edo State, Nigeria, within the framework of the National Language Policy (NLP), which emphasizes mother tongue instruction in early education. Using secondary data from the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the research identifies 26 languages spoken across the state, underscoring its multilingual character. The geographical distribution of these languages reveals varying degrees of diversity across local government areas, with Akoko-Edo emerging as the most linguistically heterogeneous. The study also assesses the level of language development in the state, showing that only a few languages—such as Edo, Esan, Yoruba, Izon, and Urhobo - have attained standard orthographies, literary works,
dictionaries, and curricular presence. By contrast, most other languages remain underdeveloped, lacking the resources required for educational application. This underdevelopment presents a major obstacle to the implementation of the NLP, which depends on well-developed indigenous languages for effective teaching and learning. The paper concludes by calling for both government and community-driven initiatives to support the development of all indigenous languages in Edo State. Such efforts would not only foster inclusivity and preserve cultural heritage but also strengthen the implementation of language-in-education policy.