House of Reps Propose Bola Tinubu University to Promote Nigerian Languages

• The House of Representatives passed a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages to promote linguistic education
• The proposed university aims to provide higher education opportunities in Nigerian languages and cultures, fostering inclusivity regardless of background or beliefs

The House of Representatives has passed the first reading of a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages.

The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight others, aims to create an institution promoting the learning and preservation of Nigerian languages.

According to Section II, Part I of the bill, the proposed university will provide higher education opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, creed, sex, or political beliefs, focusing on advancing learning in Nigerian languages and cultures.

The institution would offer academic and professional programs leading to diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate research, focusing on practical skills in Nigerian languages and their relevance to national development.

It would also serve as a hub for postgraduate training, research, and innovation, utilizing Nigeria’s natural and human resources.

The bill outlines that the university will collaborate with other national institutions involved in the development of Nigerian languages and cultures. It will also promote training, research, outreach, and continuing education related to Nigerian languages.

The university’s mandate, outlined in Section 1(2), includes training professionals in Nigerian languages, offering consultancy services, and conducting research to advance knowledge in this area.

The bill specifies that the President of Nigeria, as the university visitor, must conduct visitations at least once every five years. During these visitations, university bodies must assist the President.

The President also has the power to remove council members, except the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor, based on council recommendations related to misconduct or incompetence.

Section 15(1) states that the council can recommend the removal of a member to the Minister, who will pass the recommendation to the President for approval.

The bill is expected to move to a second reading soon, followed by a public hearing to gather input from stakeholders.