The House of Representatives has passed the first reading of a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu University of Nigerian Languages.
The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight others, seeks to create a university aimed at promoting Nigerian languages and cultures.
According to Section II Part I of the bill, the university will offer higher education opportunities without discrimination, and will focus on improving academic programmes that lead to diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate qualifications in Nigerian languages and related cultural studies.
The institution aims to produce graduates skilled in using Nigerian languages for national development.
The university will also serve as a research and innovation hub, collaborating with other national institutions to enhance the conservation and utilization of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources.
Additionally, it will offer in-service training, continuing education, and outreach programs to support the development of Nigerian languages.
The bill outlines the responsibilities of the President, who will serve as the university’s visitor, including conducting periodic visitations and overseeing the institution’s governance.
The President will also have the authority to remove council members, excluding the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor, for misconduct or inability to perform their duties.
The bill is expected to move to a second reading soon, followed by a public hearing to gather input from stakeholders.
Lanre Idris Mustapha
