Prof. Nahzeem Olufemi-Mimiko, former Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, highlights the need for teaching in local languages to drive Nigeria’s growth and development. Speaking at the 8th Convocation Lecture of Federal University Lokoja, he criticized the current educational system for prioritizing foreign languages over local ones.
Olufemi-Mimiko believes that to progress like countries such as China, India, and Japan, which use local languages in education, Nigeria must revamp its educational system with a focus on local languages. He advocates for a national policy to incorporate local languages in teaching at the primary school level, emphasizing the positive impact on learning outcomes and economic development.
Expressing concern over the high number of out-of-school children and functional illiteracy rates in Nigeria, Olufemi-Mimiko calls for government intervention to educate and empower these individuals. He also advises graduands to lead with integrity, problem-solving skills, and compassion for the vulnerable.