Retired Gen. Theophilus Danjuma inaugurated a Jukun Bible Institute in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba on Friday.
He said it was meant to enhance the translation of the Holy Bible into Jukun language.
Danjuma said the idea was started in 1956 by an American lady, Margrete Dykestra, who was assisted by a Nigerian, Malam Joel Omiri.
He added that before leaving Nigeria for America, Dykestra handed a complete translation of the New Testament to him and pleaded with him to continue with the translation project.
Danjuma urged the Jukun to endeavour to use the translated version of the Bible to spread the gospel in Jukun language so as to promote peace and unity in the land.
He also advised the people to take advantage of the Bible to ensure that Jukun language did not go into extinction.
“We cannot continue to teach our children foreign languages, I always found myself guilty of speaking English with my children.
“Let us imbibe the spirit of speaking our languages with the children; that is our identity.
“Translating the Bible into Jukun language does not mean we are in competition with any church.
“We are only consolidating the efforts of Christianity to spread the gospel in local languages.
“My advice is to you, Jukun worldwide; do not keep the Jukun translated Bible on bookshelves; get it and use it to teach your children the gospel and the need to speak their language,’’ he said.
In his remarks, Secretary to Taraba Government, Mr Anthony Jelason, who represented Gov. Darius Ishaku, commended Danjuma for always bringing developmental projects to the state.
He prayed to God to grant Danjuma long life and in good health to continue to support Taraba and to support humanity. (NAN)
