The Senior Staff Club of the University of Ibadan (UI) is set to convene a high-level national dialogue on the future of language in Nigeria’s education system amid growing debate over the country’s language policy.
The event, scheduled for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, is the fourth edition of the club’s monthly intellectual discourse and is themed, “Education in the Mother Tongue in Nigeria: To Be or Not to Be?”
According to the organisers, the dialogue comes at a critical time following widespread reactions to the possible cancellation of the National Language Policy, which promotes mother-tongue instruction in early primary education. The policy has sparked intense debate among educators, parents, and policymakers.
Proponents argue that teaching children in their first language improves comprehension and cognitive development, while critics point to the practical challenges of implementing such a policy in a linguistically diverse country with over 400 indigenous languages.
The discourse will feature prominent scholars and policymakers, including Prof. Francis Egbokhare, a respected linguist, former President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, and expert in Open Distance Education, who will serve as the lead speaker. He is expected to provide deep insights into the feasibility and implications of mother-tongue education based on extensive research.
Also speaking is the Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Prof. Clement Kolawole, a specialist in curriculum and language education, whose contributions will focus on bridging theory and classroom practice. His experience and numerous academic publications are expected to enrich discussions on implementing language policy effectively.
Adding a policy perspective, the Permanent Secretary of the Oyo State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, will provide insights into the role of government in translating educational frameworks into actionable strategies.
Organisers described the event as more than an academic exercise, noting that it represents a critical national conversation on identity, equity, and the future direction of Nigeria’s education system.