The House of Representatives has introduced a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, aimed at promoting the learning and development of Nigeria’s indigenous languages. The bill, which has passed its first reading, was sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other lawmakers.
The proposed university would focus on advancing higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures, offering opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race, creed, gender, or political affiliation. According to Section II, Part I of the bill, the institution would provide academic and professional programs that lead to diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate research. The goal is to equip students with practical skills in Nigerian languages and cultural studies, contributing to national development.
The university would also play a key role in postgraduate training, research, and innovation, aimed at optimizing Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources. It plans to collaborate with other national institutions involved in language and cultural studies, promoting outreach and continuing education in these fields.
The bill outlines the university’s broader mandate, including training professionals in Nigerian languages, offering consultancy services, and facilitating comprehensive research and learning in the country’s linguistic heritage. Section 1(2) of the bill highlights the institution’s focus on developing high-caliber professionals and fostering knowledge acquisition in various Nigerian languages.
The President of Nigeria, as the official visitor to the university, is required to conduct visitations at least once every five years, as per Section 14(2) of the bill. This section also gives the President authority to remove council members—except for the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor—based on recommendations concerning misconduct or inability to perform their duties.
Furthermore, Section 15(1) provides that if the university council deems a member unfit for their role, the council can recommend their removal to the Minister of Education, who will pass the recommendation to the President for final approval.
The bill is expected to undergo a second reading in the coming weeks, followed by a public hearing to gather feedback from stakeholders before further legislative action is taken. If passed, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages could become a pivotal institution in preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage.