The House of Representatives has initiated steps to create the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages.
This comes after the bill for the university’s establishment passed its first reading on Thursday.
The bill is sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, alongside eight other lawmakers.
It aims to promote the learning of Nigerian languages and cultures in a formal educational setting.
According to Section II, Part I of the bill, the new university will “encourage the advancement of learning” for all individuals, regardless of their race, creed, sex, or political beliefs.
This inclusive approach seeks to provide opportunities for higher education in Nigerian languages.
Section 14(2) of the bill stipulates that the President will conduct visits to the university at least once every five years.
These visits are intended to ensure proper oversight of the institution.
The bill also grants the President the authority to remove council members from office, with some exceptions for key positions like the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor.
The proposed university aims to develop academic and professional programs that lead to diplomas, first degrees, and higher degrees.
Its focus will be on enhancing skills related to Nigerian languages and cultures, contributing to national development.
“The goal is to produce socially mature individuals who can communicate effectively in Nigerian languages,” the bill states.
Furthermore, the university will act as a catalyst for research and innovation.
This includes postgraduate training aimed at the effective utilization and conservation of Nigeria’s natural and economic resources.
The establishment of the university reflects a growing recognition of the importance of Nigerian languages in education and national identity.
In addition to academic training, the university will promote sound foundational education in Nigerian languages.
It will also emphasize research activities, outreach programs, and community service related to Nigerian languages.
The mandate of the university, as outlined in Section 1(2), includes training high-caliber professionals in Nigerian languages.
It also aims to conduct research and facilitate knowledge acquisition in various Nigerian languages.
The proposal has sparked discussions among lawmakers and the public about the need for a dedicated institution for Nigerian languages.
Many see this as an opportunity to enhance cultural understanding and communication in the country.
The bill also indicates a shift towards valuing indigenous languages in the educational system.
This development comes at a time when Nigeria faces challenges in promoting its diverse cultures and languages.
“Language is a vital part of our identity,” said Benjamin Kalu, the bill’s sponsor. “We need to ensure that our languages are not only preserved but also taught in a structured manner.”
The establishment of such a university could help address the declining interest in Nigerian languages among younger generations.
Many parents express concern that their children are not learning their native languages.
This bill aims to change that narrative by making Nigerian languages part of formal education.
As the bill moves toward a second reading in the coming weeks, advocates are hopeful for its passage.
The proposed university could serve as a model for similar institutions focused on other aspects of Nigerian culture.
Critics, however, question the timing of the bill and the government’s commitment to educational reforms.
They urge that resources should also be allocated to existing universities facing challenges.
Despite differing opinions, the push for the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages is gaining momentum.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote national unity through education.
Supporters of the bill believe that understanding and valuing local languages can strengthen Nigeria’s diverse society.
The government is reminded that establishing the university is just one step in addressing the broader issues in Nigeria’s education sector.
Concerns about funding, quality of education, and infrastructure remain pressing challenges.
Nonetheless, the establishment of this university is seen as a step toward enhancing the role of Nigerian languages in education.
