In a recent interview, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, clarified the objectives of the “University of Nigerian Languages, Aba (Establishment, etc) Bill, 2024.” He emphasized that the legislation aims to upgrade the National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN) in Aba, Abia State, to a University of Nigerian Languages.
Kalu made these remarks during a courtesy visit from the Governing Board of NINLAN, led by Chairman Professor Victor Ukaogo, in Abuja. He noted that the bill he sponsored, along with eight others, does not mention President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s name. He stated, “The purpose of this bill is to amend the establishment act of NINLAN, changing its status so it can receive funding from TETFUND, expand its curriculum, and contribute more to society.”
He continued, “The Bill is not associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in any capacity. What we submitted clearly states ‘University of Nigerian Languages.’ Unfortunately, there are reports outside suggesting otherwise, which seem to aim at involving a president who is genuinely focused on strengthening education in Nigeria.”
Kalu urged the public to separate the President from what he termed “petty issues” and stressed that education is a priority. “The election is over, and it’s time to focus on elevating the standards of institutions that the federal government invests in,” he said. “This initiative is not the first I’ve taken to change the status of an institution, and it certainly won’t be the last.”
He highlighted the importance of preserving NINLAN, stating, “The nomenclature of the school is secondary; what matters is that it is a federal establishment that has the potential to create more jobs and serve our people better. We are not establishing a new university; we are upgrading NINLAN to ensure it can benefit from TETFUND and build capacity.”
Kalu also addressed the broader value of Nigerian languages, saying, “As leaders, we have a responsibility to protect the cultural identity that our forefathers passed down to us. Nigerian languages are a unifying element, and we must advocate for their preservation.”
He shared his reflections on the history of NINLAN, saying, “I knew NINLAN when it was established, and one would have expected it to be further advanced by now. I also want to express gratitude to the people of Ngwa land and Aba for their generous land donations to promote education. Their commitment shows a love for knowledge that extends beyond their community.”
He noted the lack of institutions dedicated to Nigerian languages, contrasting it with the promotion of foreign languages, particularly French. “We need to correct this imbalance, as our local languages are essential in everyday life—from the farms to markets, schools, and places of worship,” he explained. “It’s crucial to ensure our children can communicate in their local languages, as language is a cornerstone of our identity and unity.”
Kalu underscored the need to prioritize language education: “Language plays a significant role in peace, unity, and social development. If we truly embrace our nation’s diversity, we must make language education a priority. It’s not just an academic issue; it’s foundational for integrating our society.”
He added, “There’s nothing wrong with an Igbo student learning Hausa or a Hausa student learning Yoruba. Language should foster understanding and communication.” He expressed optimism that the current administration is committed to education, stating, “The renewed hope agenda of Mr. President prioritizes education, and we will not overlook NINLAN.”
Kalu called for a review of the TETFUND framework, emphasizing its goal of enhancing education universally, without discrimination. He argued, “It is time to acknowledge specialized studies like languages to enrich our educational landscape.”
Earlier, Professor Victor Ukaogo, Chairman of the Governing Board, conveyed to the Deputy Speaker the urgent federal attention NINLAN needs to address its various challenges.
