Nigeria’s House of Representatives has initiated the process to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, following the passage of a bill for first reading.
Sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight others, the proposed university aims to promote the learning of Nigerian languages and cultures.
The university’s primary objective is to encourage the advancement of learning and provide higher education opportunities in Nigerian languages and cultures, without distinction of race, creed, sex, or political conviction.
Its establishment of the university is proposed to facilitate the development of adaptive skills, national development, and research and innovation.
The institution will focus on teaching and training high-caliber professionals in Nigerian languages, conducting research, and participating in outreach and community services.
Additionally, the federal institution is to facilitate knowledge and skill acquisition in different Nigerian languages.
According to the bill, the President will serve as the Visitor and conduct visits to the university every five years or direct others to do so.
The bill states that the Visitor also has the power to remove council members, except the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor.
It says the council can recommend removal of members to the President through the Minister.
The bill outlines the university’s governance structure, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with other national institutions involved in training, research, and development of Nigerian languages and cultures.
The proposed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages is expected to play a crucial role in promoting Nigerian languages and cultures, and its establishment awaits further legislative action.
The bill is slated for a second reading in the coming weeks.
