Is it Too Late to Learn Igbo Language?

Apr 21

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I wish I had learned Igbo when I was younger”? Or maybe you’ve wondered whether your chance has passed, whether it’s “too late” to take on a new language.

If so, you're not alone. And the short answer? It’s never too late.

Let’s Talk About Age and Language Learning

There’s this common idea that only children can learn new languages easily. Yes, it’s true that kids absorb languages faster, but that doesn’t mean adults are out of the game.

In fact, adults bring their own set of superpowers to the table when it comes to language learning. Here’s what older learners typically have that kids don’t:

Self-Motivation: As adults, we usually make the choice to learn a language because we genuinely want to. Maybe it’s to reconnect with your roots, understand your family’s heritage, or simply because the Igbo language and culture fascinate you.
This kind of intrinsic motivation is one of the strongest drivers of successful learning. You’re not doing this to pass a class, you’re doing it for you!
Self-Regulation: By now, you probably have a good idea of how you learn best. Maybe it’s listening, writing things down, watching videos, or speaking aloud, you know how to structure your time and your environment for success. That’s a big deal when it comes to mastering something new.
A Solid Grasp of Your First Language: Studies show that a strong command of your first language actually helps you learn a second one more effectively. So, if your English is sharp, you’re already a step ahead in learning Igbo. You’ll start to see patterns, similarities, and connections more quickly than you might expect.

Why Learning Igbo Is Good for You

Learning a new language is not just good for your heart, it’s also great for your brain.

Research has shown that taking on intellectually stimulating challenges like language learning helps to:

Boost cognitive agility
Strengthen your working memory
Improve executive function (aka, decision-making and problem-solving)

In other words, when you push your brain to learn something unfamiliar, like Igbo, you’re giving it the kind of workout it needs to stay healthy and sharp.

As Stanford professor Laura Carstensen explains, doing what you already know how to do doesn’t form new brain connections. But learning something new, like a language or even an instrument, lights up your brain in all the right ways.

What You Gain from Learning Igbo

Beyond the cognitive perks, learning Igbo is about more than just vocabulary and grammar. It’s about connection.

You’ll be able to communicate with a wider circle of people, especially in Nigeria or within the Igbo diaspora (FYI Igbos are all over the world!!).
You’ll gain access to a rich and vibrant culture, full of storytelling, proverbs, music, and traditions.
You’ll be able to forge deep, meaningful relationships with others. As Nelson Mandela once said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.”

And if Igbo is part of your heritage? Even more powerful. You’re not just learning a language, you’re reclaiming a piece of yourself.

So, Is It Too Late?

Not even close.

It doesn’t matter if you’re 30, 50, or 80, as long as you’re willing to put in the time and effort, you can absolutely learn Igbo. Progress might feel slow at times, but every word, phrase, and conversation gets you closer to your goal.

And remember it's a journey. One that will bring you new friends, fresh perspectives, and a stronger connection to a culture that’s full of life, history, and heart.

So go ahead. Watch that Igbo movie. Write down that new phrase. Join that language group.