Otti Urges Nigeria to Adopt Indigenous Languages Like South Korea, India, China

Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti urged Nigeria to adopt indigenous languages like those used in South Korea, India, and China. At the Fafunwa Educational Foundation annual lecture in Lagos, he advocated for the reinstatement of the 2022 National Language Policy. Otti highlighted that early education using native languages results in better learning outcomes, drawing inspiration from the success of countries like South Korea, India, and China.

The academics called for addressing potential limitations, such as a shortage of skilled instructors or limited relevance beyond local communities. Professor Francis Egbokhare of the University of Ibadan argued that the mismatch between instruction language and learners' mother tongues contributes to Nigeria's learning crisis. He emphasized that education in foreign languages may limit children's access to their linguistic traditions and worldview.

Professor Angelina Kioko of the United States International University of Africa in Kenya emphasized the right of learners to learn in a language they understand. The conference communique urged the Nigerian government to examine implementation challenges and reinstate the National Language Policy, prioritizing mother tongue education.