A new National Language Policy which ensures the compulsory use of various mother tongues in Nigeria’s Primary schools has now been approved by the Federal Executive Council.
The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu while briefing States House Correspondents stated that the policy which takes immediate effect will be difficult to implement, but it is necessary to promote the cultivation and use of all Nigerian languages.
He revealed that as of today, 29 languages have become extinct, leaving the country with 625 languages.
For this reason, he disclosed that the mother tongue will be used exclusively for the first six years of education, and then combined with the English language from Junior Secondary School.
Adamu said even though the policy has officially taken effect, it can only be fully implemented when government develops instructional materials and qualified teachers are available.
He further explained that the mother tongue to be used in each school will be the dominant language spoken by the community where it is located.
President Muhammadu Buhari presided over the Federal Executive Council Meeting on Wednesday.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as well as a number of cabinet members were physically in attendance.
The ministers include those of Transportation, Muazu Sambo; Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, George Akume; Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami; Education, Adamu Adamu; Power, Abubakar Aliyu; state for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva.
Others are Ministers of Niger Delta affairs, Umana Umana; as well as Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo.
