Critically examines existing government and constitutional provisions that amount to a national language policy in Nigeria. An alternative policy in which the three indigenous Nigerian languages in the present policy are replaced with a neutral one is proposed. (21 references) (GLR)

Examines the historical role of English in the Nigerian education system. Introduced through evangelism and colonialism, English became the official Nigerian language and still occupies a place of pride in formal schooling. Although the widespread use of English in Nigeria will likely continue, the language must be adapted to the linguistic…

A Federal Government Policy in Nigeria aimed at unifying the country through the use of three major languages (Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo) has been inhibited because there are no teachers. Resistance from speakers of other languages to the enforced learning of one of the major languages also seems likely. Maintenance of English is suggested as the…

Assesses Nigeria's efforts to achieve mother-tongue literacy for its citizens. Describes Nigeria's complicated sociolinguistic landscape, national language policies, and the Ife experimental project, studying the use of the mother tongue in primary schools. Points to nonlinguistic factors in educational success, including parental background,…

The role of English in Nigeria, the de facto official language of government and administration, is discussed. The motivation for learning English remains high because it is recognized as prompting modernization and leading to white collar employment, higher social status, scholarships, and higher education. It is reported that the disappearance…

Three diverse case studies in which developing nations (the Philippines, India, and Nigeria) have chosen English as the language of instruction for the purpose of enhancing national development are described. In each case, the linguistic situation presents serious conflicts between the forces of nationalism and modernization. The Philippines…