The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce French essay and quiz competitions in public schools to engage students and promote proficiency in the language.

This initiative was revealed by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Ali-Balogun, during the handover of digital learning equipment at the Multilingual International Resource Centre in Maryland, Lagos.

The competitions aim to deepen students’ interest in French, emphasizing its importance as an international language widely used in global business and communication. Ali-Balogun noted that French is crucial for fostering job creation and improving trade relations with Nigeria’s French-speaking neighbors.

“As French is an international language widely used in global business, we must inspire our children not only to read and write in French but also to deepen their interest by organising quizzes and essay competitions to enhance their learning,” said Ali-Balogun. He added that the initiative would be implemented by the first quarter of 2024, with a proposal under review by a technical adviser.

The initiative, funded by France’s Solidarity Fund for Initiative Projects, includes distributing digital learning gadgets to 12 state-owned schools. Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Lagos, highlighted the economic advantages of French proficiency, noting that it opens doors to job opportunities in countries like France, Germany, and Australia, and with organizations such as the European Union.

“Nigeria is bordered by French-speaking countries, making it essential for the nation to embrace the French language for effective transactions within Africa and on the international stage,” Favier said.

This development reflects a broader effort to equip Nigerian students with language skills that enhance employability and global competitiveness, while strengthening ties with French-speaking regions.