The Federal Government has reaffirmed English as the official medium of instruction across all levels of education while introducing an Inclusive Language Policy aimed at promoting national unity and improving learning outcomes.
The decision was reached at the 69th National Council on Education (NCE) held in Akure, Ondo State. It confirms that English will remain the language of instruction from primary to tertiary education.
The new directive effectively discontinues the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) policy that prescribed the use of mother tongue for pupils in Primary 1 to 3. The government cited challenges such as lack of qualified teachers, inadequate learning materials, and poor transition outcomes as reasons for the review.
Speaking at the 2025 Education Language Conference in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Chief (Dr.) Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the decision aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and global best practices in education.
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He noted that language serves as a tool for inclusion and development, emphasizing that a consistent national policy will ensure equitable and quality education delivery.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, explained that the Inclusive Language Policy encourages schools to teach at least one Nigerian language alongside English.
She added that collaboration among curriculum agencies, teacher training institutions, and state ministries will be strengthened to ensure effective implementation.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing education quality, fostering national unity, and promoting inclusivity through practical and evidence-based language policies.
