In a vibrant celebration of language and culture, the Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages held its 2025 International Conference and Induction Ceremony at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. Themed Migration: Exploring the Intersection between Languages and Cultural Difficulties, the event brought together intellectuals, educators, and language enthusiasts to discuss the pivotal role of language in bridging cultures and fostering global understanding. The highlight of the conference was the induction of four distinguished language practitioners into the institute’s prestigious Professional Doctoral Fellowship, recognizing their exceptional contributions to linguistic education and cross-cultural communication.
Language as a Cultural Bridge
The conference opened with remarks from Dr. Oduwole Joseph Babatunde, Assistant Continental Overseer of the House Fellowship, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), and chairman of the event. Dr. Babatunde emphasized the deep connection between language and culture, noting that mastering a foreign language extends beyond grammar to understanding the traditions and people behind it. “In Nigeria, we have developed our version of English—Pidgin English. To speak it, you must understand the culture of its users. Similarly, learning a foreign language requires aligning with its cultural context,” he explained.
Migration, Language, and Cultural Challenges
Keynote speaker Prof. Ayeleru Lateef, Director General of the Nigeria French Language Village, Badagry, provided a compelling analysis of how migration shapes linguistic adaptability. He traced migration patterns to post-colonial economic disillusionment, where the anticipated “Eldorado” never materialized, pushing people from the periphery to global centers. Prof. Lateef categorized migration drivers into Push and Pull factors:
- Push Factors: Poverty, unemployment, high taxes, poor quality of life, inadequate medical care, political crises (e.g., insurgency), persecution, discrimination, gender abuse, war, and uncertainty.
- Pull Factors: Access to food, lower cost of living, better welfare systems, security, and opportunities for a better future, such as improved education for children.
He stressed that language barriers pose significant challenges for migrants. “To thrive in a new society, you must speak its language. Cultural differences are obstacles to communication, and learning the host language is essential for integration,” Prof. Lateef noted. He warned that inadequate language preparation risks economic and social disadvantages.
Valuing Cultural Identity
Prof. Ilupeju Akanbi Mudashirum, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Lagos, urged Nigerians to cherish their cultural heritage. “Your being cannot be divorced from your cultural setting,” he said, cautioning against self-hatred through the rejection of one’s native language. He encouraged using local languages to build national pride and identity, emphasizing that every language carries its cultural essence. “Trust in yourself; value your culture,” he advised, highlighting the challenges of acculturation or integration faced by migrants.
Migration and Legal Perspectives
Representing Barrister Olusegun, Mr. Abdullahi addressed the distinctions between regular and irregular migration. Regular migrants possess valid travel documents, while irregular migrants, lacking proper papers, face significant challenges. He underscored the societal and legal complexities posed by illegal migration, particularly in the context of asylum-seeking.
Proactive Language Learning
Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Bamisaye, Secretary to the Council, highlighted the need for proactive foreign language acquisition in Nigeria. She observed that many Nigerians only recognize the importance of learning foreign languages when faced with barriers abroad. “Learning a foreign language should be proactive, not reactive,” she advised, urging individuals to prepare for global opportunities by prioritizing linguistic skills.
Celebrating Linguistic Pioneers
The pinnacle of the event was the induction of four language practitioners into the Across Global Institute’s Professional Doctoral Fellowship. Among the honorees was Dr. Aderemi Olufunke Elizabeth, a distinguished educator with expertise in Management Information Systems, Library and Information Science, Administration & Planning, and Business Administration. With a robust career spanning teaching at the University of Jos and corporate management, Dr. Olufunke has seamlessly blended education and leadership. She praised the institute’s commitment to enhancing global communication and encouraged others to embrace foreign language studies.
A Call to Action
The 2025 International Conference underscored the transformative power of language in navigating migration and cultural integration. By honoring linguistic excellence and fostering dialogue on the intersection of language and culture, the Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages continues to pave the way for a more connected and understanding world. As Dr. Babatunde aptly stated, “Language is not just words—it’s the culture and soul of a people.” The event serves as a reminder to value our linguistic heritage while embracing the global languages that unite us.
