The House of Representatives has initiated steps to create the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, following the first reading of a bill on Thursday.
The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other lawmakers, aims to establish a university dedicated to the study and promotion of Nigerian languages and cultures.
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According to Section 11, Part I of the proposed bill, the university will “Encourage the advancement of learning and provide equal access to higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures, regardless of race, creed, gender, or political beliefs.”
The bill also outlines provisions for regular visitations, with Section 14(2) requiring the President of Nigeria, as the Visitor to the university, to conduct a formal review of its operations at least once every five years.
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The President will have the authority to appoint individuals to carry out these visitations as deemed necessary.
Section 14(3) mandates that the university fully cooperate and provide necessary assistance during these reviews.
The President will also hold the power to remove members of the university’s governing council, excluding the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor, according to the bill’s provisions.
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The university is expected to offer a range of academic programs, including diplomas, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees.
These programs will focus on the development of skills in Nigerian languages, aiming to produce graduates equipped to use and promote local languages for national development.
In addition to educational goals, the institution will act as a catalyst for research, innovation, and the conservation of Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
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It will work alongside other national institutions involved in the development and promotion of Nigerian languages.
The bill emphasizes the need for sound foundational training in Nigerian languages, with a strong focus on teaching, research, outreach programs, and continuing education.
Section 1(2) highlights the university’s mission to produce high-caliber professionals in Nigerian languages, foster community engagement, and advance knowledge in this field.
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The bill also includes provisions for removing council members due to misconduct or inability to perform their duties, subject to the President’s approval, based on recommendations from the university council.
This bill will be considered for a second reading in the coming weeks.
