Reps Greenlight Bola Tinubu University Bill

House of Reps Approves First Reading of Tinubu University Bill

“If it appears to the council that a member of the council (other than the pro-chancellor or the vice-chancellor) should...”

Bola Tinubu University bill advances in House of Reps, aiming to create a world-class institution for Nigerian language education, research, and cultural preservation, fostering national identity and unity.

The House of Representatives made a move on October 10, passing the first reading of a bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages. This significant step, championed by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other co-sponsors, aims to create a dedicated institution focused on promoting and advancing Nigerian languages.

The proposed university's mission, as outlined in Section II, Part I of the bill, is to provide educational opportunities in Nigerian languages and cultures to individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their background, beliefs, or affiliations. This inclusive approach underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Nigeria's rich linguistic diversity.

By establishing this university, Nigeria is taking a crucial step towards promoting its cultural heritage and ensuring that its languages continue to thrive for generations to come. This development is especially significant, considering the country's complex history and the importance of language in shaping national identity.

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages is set to become a hub for linguistic and cultural preservation! This institution will offer a wide range of programs, including diplomas, undergraduate, postgraduate, and higher degrees, all focused on Nigerian languages.

Academic Programs

• Diplomas in Nigerian languages and cultures
• Undergraduate degrees in language planning, development, and research
• Postgraduate programs in linguistic preservation and advancement
• Higher degrees in cultural heritage and education

But that's not all - the university will also prioritize practical skills development, ensuring students are equipped to make a real impact in their chosen fields. This includes training in language planning, development, and research, as well as in-service training and outreach programs.

Focus Areas

Research: Promoting in-depth studies on Nigerian languages and cultures

In-Service Training: Enhancing professionals' skills in language education

Outreach Programs: Engaging communities in linguistic preservation

Continuing Education: Fostering lifelong learning in Nigerian languages and cultures

The proposed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages has a clear mission: to produce highly skilled professionals who will preserve and promote Nigeria's rich linguistic heritage for generations to come. This mandate is enshrined in Section 1(2) of the bill, emphasizing the institution's commitment to training experts in Nigerian languages.

The university's focus on language training is crucial, as education plays a vital role in preserving cultural heritage. By integrating Nigerian languages into academic spheres, the institution will ensure that the country's diverse linguistic traditions are safeguarded and celebrated.

Objectives:

Preserve Linguistic Heritage: Develop programs to document, study, and promote Nigerian languages.

Train Language Expert: Produce highly skilled professionals in language education, research, and planning.

Foster Cultural Identity: Encourage the use of Nigerian languages in daily life, fostering a sense of national pride and identity.

By achieving these objectives, the university will contribute significantly to Nigeria's cultural preservation efforts, ensuring that its linguistic heritage remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.

“Provide Nigerian language services and consultancy.

“Conduct research and participate in outreach and community services and facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and skills in different Nigerian languages.”

The bill outlines the President's role as Visitor to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages. Section 14 (2) mandates the President to conduct regular visitations to the institution, ensuring its effective governance and academic excellence. This visitation is required at least once every five years, with flexibility to conduct more frequent visits as necessary.

Alternatively, the President may delegate this responsibility to appointed representatives. These individuals will conduct thorough assessments of specific aspects of the university's affairs, providing valuable insights for improvement.

Section 14 (3) emphasizes the university's obligation to support the visitation process. All university bodies and personnel are required to provide the Visitor or appointed representatives with necessary facilities, resources, and assistance. This ensures a seamless and effective evaluation, enabling informed decisions for the university's growth.

Section 14 grants the President authority to remove specific governing council members, with two exceptions: the Pro-Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor.

Section 15 (1) reads, “If it appears to the council that a member of the council (other than the pro-chancellor or the vice-chancellor) should be removed from office on the ground of misconduct or inability to perform the functions of his office or employment, the council shall make a recommendation to that effect through the Minister to the President after making such enquiry, if any, as may be considered appropriate.

“If the President approves the recommendation, he may direct the removal of the person in question from office.”

The bill will advance to its second reading in the upcoming weeks, followed by a public hearing to solicit feedback from stakeholders.