The Ejagham Tradition Centre (EjT) is pleased to state the successful submission of the finalised Revised Ejagham Language Orthography (RELO) to the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in Abuja on Monday 26th May, 2025. This significant milestone follows the meticulous revision process undertaken by the EjT Technical Committee after the maiden RELO Conference, which was held in Calabar, Cross River State, from July 31 to August 2, 2024.
Upon the completion of this process, EjT President, Ntufam (Engr) Chris Anom, delegated Nta Dominic Awor to present the final RELO document to NERDC.
Official Engagements at NERDC
Upon arrival at the NERDC headquarters, a courtesy visit was paid to Dr. Mrs. Nkechi Adiele, Director of the Language Development Department. Her department worked closely with the EjT Technical Committee, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive revision of the document. On behalf of the EjT President and the Ejagham people, heartfelt appreciation was conveyed by Nta Dominic Awor for their invaluable contributions.
L – R: Dr. Victor Ekwuokoma, Director of Language Development Centre Dr. Nkechi Adiele, Nta Dominic Awor and Director of Language Development Center Dr. Garba Gandu.
Dr. Adiele expressed her satisfaction with the well-structured RELO document, recognising it as a significant step in revitalising the Ejagham language. She reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting the curriculum development process to ensure its eventual publication.
Accompanied by Dr. Nkechi Adiele and Dr. Victor Ekwukoma, a brief visit was made to Dr. Garba Gandu, Director of Curriculum Development, who also supported the RELO Conference in Calabar.
Formal Presentation to the Executive Secretary
Following these engagements, Dr. Adiele led the delegation to the office of Professor Salisu Sani, Executive Secretary of NERDC. She formally introduced the EjT representative and provided an overview of the journey and efforts undertaken by EjT and the Ejagham people to standardise their language for international recognition through curriculum development.
In response, Professor Sani commended the Ejagham Tradition Centre and the broader Ejagham community for their commendable dedication to preserving their linguistic and cultural heritage. He assured EjT of NERDC’s full support and cooperation in the development of the Ejagham Language curriculum.
The highlight of the occasion was the formal presentation of the Revised Ejagham Language Orthography document by Nta Dominic Awor, on behalf of EjT President Ntufam (Engr) Chris Anom, to the Executive Secretary of NERDC, Professor Salisu Sani.
Acknowledgment and Future Outlook
This momentous achievement marks a critical step toward ensuring that the Ejagham language receives the recognition and institutional framework needed for teaching and development. As Ejagham continues to make strides in reclaiming its linguistic heritage, EjT remains dedicated to advancing this mission.
Special gratitude is extended to EjT President Ntufam (Engr) Chris Anom for his leadership and the privilege granted to represent EjT and the Ejagham nation in this historic submission.
Ejagham is on a path of remarkable progress, and in the near future, it will reclaim its rightful place in the global linguistic landscape.
Long live Ejagham Qua!
Long live Ejagham Etung!
Long live Ejagham Bakor!
Long live Ejagham Obang!
Long live Ejagham Njemaya!
Long live Ejagham Ngunaya!
Long live Ejagham Akamkpa!
Jighi jighi, nne ajigha ejeh – Revere your own.
Ekup na nkad.
