The House of Representatives has advanced a bill proposing the establishment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages. This initiative aims to enhance the study and preservation of Nigerian languages and culture, reflecting a commitment to cultural education within the nation.
Spearheaded by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, along with eight other representatives, the bill successfully passed its first reading on Thursday. It delineates the university's focus on providing education in Nigerian languages and cultures to students from various backgrounds, regardless of race, creed, or political beliefs.
According to Section II, Part I of the bill obtained by Punch Online on Saturday, the university, once established, shall “encourage the advancement of learning and to hold out to all persons without distinction of race, creed, sex, or political conviction, the opportunity of acquiring a higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures.”
In addition to promoting education, the university aims to produce graduates proficient in using Nigerian languages for societal growth, engaging in research, innovation, and postgraduate training. This focus intends to harness Nigeria’s natural and human resources effectively.
The university is also expected to collaborate with other national institutions involved in language and cultural studies, thereby advancing Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage. Outlined responsibilities include providing training in Nigerian languages, conducting outreach programs, and supporting in-service training and continuing education.
Section 1(2) of the bill emphasizes that the university’s mandate includes developing professionals skilled in Nigerian languages, fostering communication in local languages for national unity, and supporting knowledge acquisition in these areas.
Upon its establishment, the federal institution would also serve as an agent and catalyst for effective and economic utilization, exploitation, and conservation of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources through postgraduate training, research, and innovation.
The bill highlights the importance of establishing relationships with other national institutions engaged in the training, research, and development of Nigerian languages and cultures. Furthermore, it stresses the necessity of providing and promoting solid foundational training to support the development of Nigerian languages while emphasizing teaching and research activities.
The university's objectives as outlined in Section 1(2) include “teaching and training high-caliber professionals in Nigerian languages,” “providing Nigerian language services and consultancy,” and “conducting research and participating in outreach and community services to facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and skills in different Nigerian languages.”
The President of Nigeria will act as the university’s Visitor, possessing the authority to conduct periodic visitations to ensure the institution operates in alignment with its objectives.
Section 14(2) mandates that these visitations occur at least every five years, allowing the President or designated representatives to examine the university’s activities. The Visitor’s role is pivotal in maintaining oversight and ensuring the university adheres to its foundational goals.
Furthermore, the President is empowered to dismiss council members, excluding the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor, on grounds of misconduct or inability to fulfill their responsibilities, based on recommendations from the university council.
Section 15(1) states, “If it appears to the council that a member of the council (other than the pro-chancellor or the vice-chancellor) should be removed from office on the ground of misconduct or inability to perform the functions of his office or employment, the council shall make a recommendation to that effect through the Minister to the President after making such enquiry, if any, as may be considered appropriate.”
“If the President approves the recommendation, he may direct the removal of the person in question from office.”
The bill is anticipated to move to a second reading in the coming weeks, at which point a public hearing will be held to allow stakeholders to provide input on the proposed university. This step is crucial for gathering community feedback and ensuring that the university aligns with the aspirations and needs of the Nigerian populace.