Nigeria FG Drops Mother Tongue Policy, Mandates English as Primary Language of Instruction

The Digest:

The Federal Government has officially canceled the mother tongue instruction policy, directing schools nationwide to prioritize English as the primary medium of teaching. Announced by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa, the change aims to improve learning outcomes and ensure uniformity across Nigeria’s diverse classrooms, despite concerns about cultural preservation.

Key Points:

• The Federal Government has canceled the national policy mandating indigenous languages in schools.
• Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced English will now be the primary medium of instruction at all levels.
• The decision aims to improve exam performance and ensure uniformity in education delivery.
• Alausa cited data linking mother tongue instruction to high failure rates in WAEC, NECO, and JAMB.
• English was emphasized as a unifying tool for national cohesion and global competitiveness.
• The policy shift was announced at the British Council’s Language in Education Conference in Abuja.
• The British Council reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive, language-responsive education in Africa.

This move places Nigeria at a cultural crossroads, prioritizing global integration and academic performance in the stormy debate over language and identity.

Sources: Daily Trust