The Federal Government has formally abandoned its earlier plan to introduce mother-tongue instruction as the foundation of primary education, announcing instead that English will now be used exclusively as the medium of teaching from the primary level. The reversal marks a significant shift from the previously promoted approach, which aimed to strengthen early learning by rooting instruction in children’s first languages.
Education experts have sharply criticized the decision, arguing that sidelining indigenous languages risks weakening cultural identity, limiting students’ connection to their heritage, and overlooking research that emphasizes the benefits of early learning in a familiar language. Critics say the change reflects a broader pattern of policy inconsistency and may further strain teachers who had begun preparing for a blended language model.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly has delayed the transition to WAEC’s Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system until 2030, pushing the assessment body’s planned timeline several years forward. Lawmakers said the extension is intended to allow schools and examination stakeholders more time to adjust to the technological requirements, especially in areas where digital infrastructure remains uneven. The postponement has sparked renewed discussions on the readiness of Nigeria’s education system for large-scale digital reforms.
FG Drops Mother-Tongue Teaching Policy, Experts Raise Cultural and Academic Concerns
