The House of Representatives has moved forward with a new legislative proposal to create the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, a specialized institution aimed at preserving and promoting Nigerian languages.
This bill, introduced by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu along with eight other sponsors, passed its first reading last week, marking a key step in Nigeria’s effort to protect its linguistic heritage.
According to the bill, the university’s goal will be to “promote the advancement of knowledge” and offer an accessible route to higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures to everyone, regardless of background or political views.
This objective is in line with Section II, part I of the bill, which outlines the development of academic programs in Nigerian languages to equip students with “planning, adaptive, developmental, and productive skills,” as explained by Kalu.
“The university’s goal is to produce socially mature individuals capable of using Nigerian languages for national development,” said Kalu.
The bill outlines that the university will offer a variety of academic qualifications, ranging from diplomas and bachelor’s degrees to postgraduate research and advanced degrees, all aimed at providing students with essential skills for both personal and national development.
Beyond academics, the proposed university will serve as a “catalyst” for social and economic progress in Nigeria.
The bill supports postgraduate research and innovation, encouraging the efficient and sustainable use of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu emphasized the university’s potential role in building “meaningful partnerships with other national institutions” focused on language and cultural research.
As outlined in Section 1(2), the university’s mission includes the responsibility to “educate and train top-level professionals in Nigerian languages.”
The institution will not only promote research and community outreach but also offer consultancy services to develop expertise in various Nigerian languages.
This comprehensive strategy aims to strengthen language education and expand outreach efforts, including in-service training and continuing education programs.
In terms of oversight, the President of Nigeria, who will act as the university’s “Visitor,” is expected to conduct an official visit at least once every five years to evaluate its performance and effectiveness.
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According to Section 14(2) of the bill, the President can also appoint third parties to conduct visitations, ensuring that all departments comply with their mandates. This structure aims to uphold accountability within the institution.
Moreover, the bill grants the President the authority to remove council members on grounds of misconduct or incompetence, with a provision for council recommendations made through the Minister.
Section 15(1) reads, “If it appears to the council that a member… should be removed from office on the ground of misconduct or inability to perform… the council shall make a recommendation to that effect through the Minister to the President.” This clause safeguards the institution’s integrity and ensures that only capable individuals lead.
As the bill awaits a second reading and a subsequent public hearing, stakeholders are preparing to discuss its implications on Nigerian society and the preservation of cultural identity.
The proposal comes at a crucial time, as Nigeria seeks to revive and protect its rich linguistic heritage, an asset that Deputy Speaker Kalu believes is central to the nation’s identity.
In Kalu’s words, “The establishment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages will foster national unity through the promotion of Nigerian languages, equipping future generations to appreciate and communicate effectively within our diverse cultural landscape.”
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