Wikimedia foundation Unveils A'Ibom Network to Empower Local Content and Language Digitization

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Tuesday, October 29, 2024

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo The Wikimedia User Group Nigeria has launched its Akwa Ibom Network, a move that promises to transform the representation of State’s culture, language, and historical sites on a global digital scale.

In a milestone launch event which took place at the Bunkers in Uyo on Saturday drew local and national Wikimedia leaders who emphasized the importance of documenting and sharing Akwa Ibom's unique heritage online.

In his opening address, Mr. Kayode Yussuf, the National Director of communities in charge of Fanclubs and Networks in Nigeria, laid out the group's mission. “Our mandate is clear: to bring Nigeria’s rich culture, traditions, values and knowledge to the world, by sharing Akwa Ibom’s history, language, food, and customs, we’re building a bridge between our communities and the global audience.”Yussuf stated.

Yussuf also highlighted Wikimedia’s commitment to partnerships that enhance access to Nigerian content. “We work with institutions like the National Museum and state governments to document and promote cultural heritage,” he said. “Our work is open to anyone committed to advancing education and access to information.”

Through the Akwa Ibom Network, the Wikimedia User Group Nigeria hopes to engage local communities, encouraging them to document their culture and traditions while providing training in digital literacy and content creation. This initiative aims not only to showcase Akwa Ibom on the global stage but also to preserve its unique cultural identity.

Also speaking, Ayokanmi Oyeyemi, National Program Director for Wikimedia Nigeria, shared his motivation for joining the Wikimedia movement, citing a need to correct inaccurate portrayals of Nigeria on the internet. “I joined Wikimedia to change narratives about Nigeria, ensuring that our story is told accurately,” Oyeyemi shared. “Misrepresentation is harmful, and we’re here to give people access to factual information about our country.”

The Wikimedia Foundation, which operates as a non-profit, relies on donations to fund its projects and support initiatives like Wikipedia, Wikidata, and Wikicommons. Oyeyemi explained, “Our goal is to make information accessible to everyone, regardless of location. From large cities to remote villages, we believe in open access to knowledge.”

The newly inaugurated Akwa Ibom Network team included, Andikan Eduok as the President and State Team Lead, Utibe Uduak Silas as Vice President, Itoro Umoren as Projects Coordinator, and Victor Ibok as Program Officer.Aimedto work together to align local Wikimedia initiatives with national goals, while also ensuring that Akwa Ibom’s presence on Wikimedia platforms grows.

Eduok, taking on her role as Team Lead, expressed excitement about contributing to the Wikimedia Foundation’s mission. “It’s been challenging convincing people that anyone can contribute to Wikipedia, but with this official launch, I hope to build a community where Akwa Ibom’s rich history and heritage are valued and widely accessible,” she said.

Vice President Utibe Uduak Silas underscored the significance of bringing Ibibio and other indigenous languages online, a move that would safeguard them for future generations. “If we look up Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba, we find digital content readily available, our language deserves the same presence, and we are determined to make that happen.” Silas noted.

Eduok concluded by inviting community members to join in this journey, stating, “We’re here to make sure Akwa Ibom’s story is told, so it can be understood, respected, and celebrated by future generations.”

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