Introductory Lecture on the Ịka Language

The Ika language is spoken by the Ika people, a minority ethnic group primarily found in Delta and Edo States in southern Nigeria. As a member of the Igboid group within the Niger-Congo language family, Ika shares similarities with the Igbo language but has its unique phonetic and lexical characteristics. Historically, the Ika people have preserved their language through oral traditions, songs, and stories. Despite influences from neighboring languages and colonial history, the Ika language remains a vital part of the community's cultural identity, with ongoing efforts to document and promote its use among younger generations.