The Executive Director of the Nigeria Bible Translation Trust (NBTT), Mrs Patience Markus Toma, has called for increased local investment in Bible translation, expressing concern that about 95 per cent of funding for the organisation’s projects comes from outside Nigeria. Toma believes that greater support from individuals, communities and other local stakeholders is needed to sustain the work of NBTT and ensure that the Holy Scriptures are made accessible to more Nigerians in their indigenous languages. According to [Tribune Online](https://tribuneonlineng.com), Toma made this plea during a recent event marking the World Bible Translation Day. The event, which aimed to highlight the importance of Bible translation and the challenges faced by organisations like NBTT, attracted a wide range of stakeholders including clergy, scholars, and development partners. The NBTT’s call for local investment comes at a time when the organisation is working on translating the Bible into over 500 indigenous languages spoken in Nigeria, a country with over 250 ethnic groups. While the Bible has been translated into several major Nigerian languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo, many indigenous languages are yet to benefit from this effort. This situation, Toma noted, limits the understanding and use of the Holy Scriptures among many Nigerians, particularly those in rural and remote areas. The call for local investment in Bible translation is a significant development, as it highlights the need for Nigerians to take a more active role in supporting initiatives that promote their cultural heritage and religious beliefs. By investing in Bible translation projects, local communities can contribute to the preservation and propagation of their languages, thereby ensuring their continuity and enriching their spiritual lives. The success of this initiative will depend on the commitment and support of various stakeholders, including the government, faith-based organisations, and philanthropists. As Toma emphasised, ‘every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring that the Bible is accessible to all in their mother tongue.’
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