Abstract
In this chapter, I explored the use of languages in instruction and communication in Nigeria from back in the earlier days to the present. Nigeria is a country of about 150 million people and speaks about 250 different dialects (languages). The diversity in dialects is based on the fact that Nigeria is a multiethnic country with different nationalities. Even though Nigeria is a multiethnic country, the federating states employ one curriculum for students in K-12 whereby every state looks up to the federal government for directions including the language to use in teaching and learning. The paper makes an in-depth exploration of the effect of Nigeria’s language policy. Specific attention is given to the three dominant spheres of languages in Nigeria: English Language (EL), Mother Tongue (MT), and Pidgin English (PE). The challenges, issues and perspectives associated with each of these modes of languages in communication, commerce, trade, and especially in teaching K-12 students is the central focus of the paper.
Note: Linguists often differentiate between languages and dialects. In this paper the two terms are used interchangeably.
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Ojose, B. (2019). Languages in Nigeria’s Educational Sector: Issues, Challenges and Perspectives. In: Johannessen, B. (eds) Bilingualism and Bilingual Education: Politics, Policies and Practices in a Globalized Society . Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-05496-0_3
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