House of Reps Pushes for Teaching With Indigenous Languages in School

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Education to initiate a pilot program in select schools across the country to evaluate the feasibility and benefits of using local languages as a medium of instruction.

This resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Kalejaiye Adeboye Paul (APC, Lagos), emphasizing the need to promote local languages in primary and junior secondary schools.

Adeboye highlighted Nigeria’s rich linguistic diversity, reflecting the nation’s vibrant cultural heritage. He pointed out that the current education system’s reliance on English as the primary medium of instruction has marginalized indigenous languages like Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, leaving them underutilized and at risk of fading away.

He argued that teaching in students’ mother tongues fosters stronger teacher-student connections, creates a more conducive learning environment, and enhances classroom dynamics.

According to Adeboye, aligning educational language with local culture encourages greater community involvement and support for children’s education. He stressed that promoting indigenous languages in primary and junior secondary schools is essential for creating an inclusive and culturally sensitive education system. This approach can improve the overall learning experience for children nationwide.

Adeboye concluded that prioritizing local languages bridges the gap between education and culture, ensuring no child is left behind due to language barriers. He emphasized that this would foster academic success, empower communities, and strengthen the nation’s social fabric.