Local Languages To Be Made Compulsory In Primary Schools

A bill seeking to make the learning of local languages compulsory in Nigeria’s primary schools has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by the Speaker of the House, Dr Tajudeen Abbas and Co-sponsored by member representing Illela/Gwadabawa Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, Bello Ambarura, aims to mandate the study of indigenous languages from Primary One to Primary Three in schools across the country.

In his lead debate on the general principles of the bill, Ambarura
argued that early education in local languages would help children grasp foundational concepts more easily and bridge cultural gaps in education.

Dr Abbas also emphasized the bill’s importance, noting that it aligns with global best practices where native language instruction is prioritized in foundational education.

He pointed to the potential of the bill to strengthen national identity and promote cultural diversity.

The bill was voted on, adopted, and referred to relevant committees for further legislative input.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji