Nigeria's rapid rise

In our final email update of 2024, we promised to write more about the exciting increased pace of Bible translation in Nigeria the past few years. We are planning to write again on this topic in our spring email update…

But I just read a very nice article on the topic of Nigerian Bible translation by the Wycliffe Global Alliance which I would like to reblog here.

 

"With the swift advancement of Bible translation into predominantly oral, non-literate communities, new challenges are arising as well. One challenge is equipping local teams to share work that relies heavily on advanced technology.

In Nigeria, new projects in new language groups have even moved the country off of ProgressBible’s list of nations with the most languages needing translation to start. Three years ago Nigeria's list contained 178 languages. Now it has just 22. Nigeria today has at least 232 language projects in the pre-translation, preparatory phase. This brings a heightened need for training and technological support."

 

 

I don't think it's any spoiler to summarize some of the challenges the article points to the increased training needed to better utilize advanced technology, reliable internet and tech support being so important since the use of technology continues to increase in Bible translation.

 

Despite the challenges, the article also points out the incredible impact audio Scriptures are having:

 

 "Even in remote areas and among people without formal education, smartphone ownership is common.

‘They use these devices to listen to music and other content, so sharing God’s Word in audio format fits naturally into their daily lives,’ he says. ‘This accessibility has been transformational, allowing God’s Word to reach hearts and minds in ways that were previously impossible."

 

Click here to read the original article "Nigeria's rapid rise"