Nigerian musician and cultural advocate Charles Onyeabor has called on Nigerians to take pride in and prioritize their indigenous languages, emphasizing that fluency in English is not a measure of intelligence but merely a reflection of linguistic skill.

In a passionate statement, Onyeabor criticized the societal misconception that equates English proficiency with intelligence, describing it as a form of cultural brainwashing. He urged Nigerians, particularly those who cannot speak their native languages fluently, to reflect on their identity and heritage.

Onyeabor stressed that while learning foreign languages is beneficial, neglecting one’s indigenous language—a core part of one’s identity—is a grave mistake. He pointed to countries like France and Italy, where citizens prioritize their native languages, as examples Nigeria should emulate.

He said:
"Perfect English is not a mark of intelligence; it’s a mark of linguistic ability. We Africans have been programmed to believe that the more fluent you are in English, the more intelligent you are. I know many people who speak flawless English but aren’t as smart as a goat. If you’re Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, or from any other tribe, and you can’t speak your native language fluently while being fluent in a foreign language, you should be ashamed of yourself."

"Don’t get me wrong—it’s good to speak other languages, but don’t act like your native language is worthless. It’s your identity. In France, they don’t care about English or any other language. Italians prioritize their language above all else. But in Nigeria, people insult others by saying, ‘He/she can’t even speak good English.’ It should be the other way around. People should say, ‘You can’t even speak your own language,’ instead of mocking those who can’t speak another person’s language."