Obong of Calabar warns against reversal of national language policy

The Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, has officially called upon the Federal Government to reverse its recent decision concerning the National Language Policy. The monarch argues that abandoning the inclusion of mother tongues as a medium of instruction in early education threatens to trigger a profound cultural and identity crisis across Nigeria.

Speaking through the chairman of the Obong of Calabar Executive Forum, High Chief Gershom Henshaw, the monarch expressed concern that the removal of indigenous languages from classroom settings would negatively impact the cognitive development of children. According to the Obong, pupils in rural areas who rely on mother-tongue instruction stand to be particularly disadvantaged by this policy shift. Furthermore, the monarch warned that failing to integrate indigenous languages into formal schooling could weaken cultural pride in future generations and effectively nullify efforts toward what he described as “indigenising development.”

The Efik language itself holds deep historical and social significance in the region. Historically, it served as a lingua franca of the Cross River region, bolstered by the extensive trading activities of the Efik people. By the 18th century, it was firmly established as the public voice for trade, diplomacy, and daily life in Calabar. The language has been documented in writing since the early 19th century, with significant scholarly and literary developments occurring following the arrival of Christian missionaries in 1846. Throughout the 20th century, Efik-language magazines, newspapers, and periodicals flourished, and today the language remains integral to ceremonial life, including royal events and the activities of the Ekpe secret society.

The Obong’s recent statements come as the community prepares for the 14th edition of the Utomo Obong, the annual Yuletide homage to the Obong of Calabar by the 12 royal houses of the Efik Kingdom. The monarch took the opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu for his development strides within the country and in Cross River State specifically, while also calling for continued support for the administration’s "Renewed Hope" agenda. He further lauded the Cross River State Government for its role in formalizing the Utomo Obong within the state tourism calendar.

The upcoming festival is scheduled to commence on Monday, 15 December 2025, with a formal proclamation by the Obong of Calabar at his palace. The following day, Tuesday, 16 December 2025, will be marked as Usen Usem Efik, or Efik Language Day, held at The African Club in Calabar. The week-long celebration will proceed on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, with the awarding of the highest Efik chieftaincy title, Ada Idagha ke Efik Eburutu, to distinguished Nigerians who have contributed to the nation and the Efik kingdom. Notable individuals to be honored include Nella Andem Rabana (SAN), recognized as the first Nigerian female lawyer to sit at the International Court of Justice, and Professor Barbara Etim James.

The festivities will continue with the Mbuba Ubom, or Boat Regatta, on Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Marina Resort Water Front, followed by the Obong of Calabar Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, 19 December 2025, at the Calabar Golf Course. The event will culminate on Saturday, 20 December 2025, with the main Utomo Obong celebration at the Obong’s country home in Adiabo, Ikot Mbo Otu, and a concluding Efik Royal Concert that evening.