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By Simeon Mpamugoh
It was a colourful display of the cultural heritage and language of the people of Edo State, South-south geopolitical zone of Nigeria, at the 2026 Edo Language Day held in Etobicoke, Toronto, Canada, 13-5th of August.
Global Coordinator for the event Nekpen Obasogie disclosed that the 2026 Edo Language Day was a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and splendor of the Edo people from around the world.
She said that the gathering “aims to preserve the Edo linguistic heritage and culture, embodying the values of Canadian multiculturalism” and “We had the opportunity to meet Shafqat Ali, a Canadian Member of Parliament, and Patrick Brown, the Mayor of Brampton.
“Furthermore, we engaged with the Chairman and Chief Executive of Nigeria Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Hon. Abike Dabiri at the Flavors of the Nigeria event, where we showcased our culture and significantly enhanced cultural inclusion through meaningful connections.”
Obasogie, who leads the initiative that birthed the annual Edo Language Day Worldwide, declared that the event was an important step toward preserving the Edo linguistic heritage among Edo people across the globe.
Recognizing the alarming decline in the use of the Edo language, she designated August 13th as a day to celebrate and revitalize the language internationally in response to the United Nations’ reports on the gradual extinction of Indigenous languages across the globe. “This is one of the reasons that spurred the need for action which elicited the commemoration of the event.
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“The United Nations reports projected that, by 2100, at least 50 percent of today’s spoken languages might become extinct or seriously endangered, and the Edo language is no exception,” she said. “I made the formal announcement of Edo Language Day Worldwide celebration during the inaugural global Edo Language Seminar I organized on NEBO TV on August 13th, 2022. This initiative received the endorsement of some esteemed Benin elders and influential guests on the occasion,” Obasogie revealed.
With a theme –Beyond Borders: Edo Language Day and Canadian Multiculturalism, A Cultural Forum,” Edo Language Day seeks to harmonize language, with a view to amplifying Canada’s cultural tapestry.
The convener, who had earlier introduced the Diary of Edo Language Day Worldwide book to the audience, said that the book was a testament to the persistent commitment of the Edo people to preserve, promote and celebrate their linguistic heritage.
She expressed elation that the programme enjoyed the backing of the Canadian government, while several Edo indigenes graced the occasion.
Obasogie disclosed that preparations for the 2027 edition were currently underway, noting that the edition would mark a significant milestone in the preservation, promotion, and advancement of Edo language, culture, history, and heritage in North America.
She said that the key objective of the 2027 program would be the official launch of the Edo Cultural Heritage Commission in North America, an initiative dedicated to strengthening the preservation and promotion of Edo cultural heritage for present and future generations.
“The Edo Language Day 2027 celebration will witness the launch of the Edo Cultural Heritage Commission in North America, which will be held concurrently in August 2027 in Toronto, Canada. The official dates, venue, and programme details are still being kept under wraps and will be announced in due course,” Obasogie stated.
