Reps advances bill to establish federal university for Nigerian languages
The House of Representatives has moved forward with a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, aimed at promoting the study and preservation of Nigerian languages and cultures.
The bill passed its first reading on Thursday, following its introduction by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other co-sponsors.
The proposed university is designed to provide higher education opportunities in Nigerian languages without discrimination based on race, creed, gender, or political affiliation, according to Section II Part I of the bill, as obtained by PUNCH Online.
The institution will focus on offering academic and professional programs, including diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, with a strong emphasis on adaptive and developmental skills in the field of Nigerian languages.
The university’s mission includes producing individuals who are proficient in communicating, understanding, and utilizing Nigerian languages for national development. It will also serve as a hub for postgraduate research, innovation, and training that enhances the effective use of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources.
In addition to academic programs, the bill outlines the university’s role in collaborating with other institutions to promote Nigerian languages through research, outreach, in-service training, and continuing education.
The university will also train language professionals and facilitate research in various Nigerian languages, with the aim of preserving the nation’s linguistic heritage. According to the bill, the institution will promote sound basic training and emphasize teaching and research in Nigerian languages.
As per the bill, the President of Nigeria will serve as the Visitor to the university, with the authority to conduct a visitation at least once every five years to oversee the institution’s affairs. The President also holds the power to remove council members, except for the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor, based on recommendations from the university council.
The bill is expected to proceed to a second reading in the coming weeks, followed by a public hearing to gather input from stakeholders.