AN APPRAISAL OF THE LANGUAGE POLICY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The paper examined the language policy in Nigeria. It reviewed the inception of
English language in Nigeria, and discovered that it has been the official language of Nigeria, the
language of business and education for more than four decades. The paper took a critical look at
the desire to introduce three indigenous languages; namely, Hausa Yoruba and Igbo including
French in the face of the dwindling standard of the English language in the country. In order to
forestall retrogression in the country, the paper concludes that the lapses in both spoken and
written English should be given a remedial attention at all levels, and teachers of English
language should be trained and retrained. Also, English language should be allowed to enjoy the
status of a second language in Nigeria, due its global status.