The Federal Government has officially abolished the National Language Policy that required schools to teach in indigenous languages from early childhood through primary education.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced on Wednesday at the 2025 Language in Education International Conference, organized by the British Council in Abuja. The decision, ratified at the 69th National Council on Education meeting in Akure, marks a major shift in Nigeria’s education strategy.
Alausa stated that English would now serve as the sole language of instruction at all levels — from pre-primary to tertiary — citing data that linked the use of local languages in schools to poor national exam results.
“For 15 years, overemphasis on mother-tongue instruction has weakened learning outcomes in some regions. We’re choosing evidence over emotion,” Alausa said.
He urged stakeholders to provide empirical evidence if they disagree, adding that the ministry remains open to dialogue.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmed, revealed that new teacher training programs are being designed to enhance literacy and numeracy skills at the foundational level.
British Council Country Director, Donna McGowan, reaffirmed the council’s continued support for Nigeria’s education reforms.
