EMERGING ISSUES IN BIBLE TRANSLATION INTO NIGERIAN LANGUAGES: INSIGHTS FROM SELECTED TRANSLATION PROJECTS

Abstract

In recent times there has been an explosion of Bible translation into Nigerian languages. This explosion has been characterized by the increased involvement of local translation worker, unlike the earlier translation works that was dominated by expatriates. Although the increase in Bible translation activities and the increased involvement of local translators are positive developments, they come with the risk of less rigorous background sociolinguistic research, and the possibility that language politics among Nigerian ethnic nationalities and the attendant sentiments may percolate into the process of selecting languages to work on. There is therefore a need for an objective scholarly appraisal of the sociolinguistic dynamics involved. To this end, this article x-rays some critical sociolinguistic considerations that should guide the process of determining which Nigerian languages to translate the Bible into at a particular point in time. The article concludes, citing a number of specific instances, that some somewhat discomforting Bible translation decision are being taken in Nigeria on the basis of unconvincing logic and sentimental grounds, leading to redundant or superfluous works which waste scarce resources. These include the Okun Bible, and ongoing translation projects in Kami, Gupa, Ọkọ and Ọ̀sàyẹ́n.  The article recommends the adoption of a central coordinating body to vet Bible translation decisions in Nigeria using strictly professional standard.