The Role of the English Language and Language Policy Reforms in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper investigates and focuses on the importance of the English Language in our education system. The paper adopts descriptive analysis in lieu of theoretical framework. On methodology, the paper considers the historical perspectives of the different aspects of language policy reform in Nigeria. The different observed weaknesses of language policy in Nigeria are then used to make some recommendations and draw conclusion. The English language is the foundation stone towards the improvement in learning most subjects or courses taught in our schools and institutions of higher learning. The English Language, as a national language, has its own share of problems, enveloped within the folds of teaching, studying in higher primary schools, and tertiary institutions. Many administrators and policy makers have left out the important part of re-examining and re-appraising the role played by the English Language in the lives of our students. Therefore, in this paper, attention is drawn to such problems, and recommendations made, with a view to making the policy reform a reality. The paper concludes with a call for training and re-training of the English language teachers and a call for full implementation of the language policy reforms in Nigeria.