By Hashim Isah Spaco II.
This is a programme designed to enlighten Igala sons and daughters on the need to speak our language, give or bear our indigenous names and the need to identify ourselves with such indigenous or native names.
Many people have gained advantages through identifying themselves with their indigenous names and speaking their languages especially in offices where people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds are struggling to get white-collar jobs. Why is Igala an exception? That is why the initiator, Alhaji King Tijay Bala, deemed it necessary to organize this unique programme to enable Igala sons and daughters gather to listen to people who know a lot about the importance of speaking this wonderful language (Igala) as an Igala person anywhere you are and bearing indigenous names.
There is something we need to bear in mind, it is not giving a child native name that matters, what matters is the name itself given to the child. Remember, in selecting a particular name for a child, as a father or mother, be careful. A name has a positive or negative impact on the life of a child. A name goes with destiny. That is why every name has its meaning. A good name goes with good fortune while bad name goes with bad fortune. The reverse is the case.
The two dominant religions (Islam & Christianity) we practise do not condemn giving native names to children but warn against giving bad names. Even religious names have their meanings. Name is simply for identification.
Guardians are advised to give any names to their children but good ones.
Many thanks to Alhaji King Tijay Bala for this wonderful initiative.
The maiden edition of the programme (Ichi Igala Odu Igala) was held yesterday 28th December, 2016 at Our Lady
of School Anyigba. The programme was informative, instructive, educative and entertaining.
At the occasion, we witnessed the presence of the religious leaders, royal fathers, talented Igala artistes from different parts of Igalaland and other illustrious Igala sons and daughters.
Credit: Muhammad Bashir Muhammad
