Adopting the Indigenous Nigerian Languages for National Development

Abstract

The availability of different languages in different countries of the African Continent is a source of strength. It is a potential that should be harnessed to foster national integration through greater participation in the political process by the masses. However, the dominance of colonialists’ language as "official language" has robbed the masses in African Countries the opportunity of participation in their political process because of the language barrier. This study highlights the reason why African languages are not being used in policy making and thereafter suggests remedies. It is the recommendation of this study that if policies are made in the language that the masses understand, greater participation would promote good governance.

Key words: National Development, African continent, Colonialism, Multilingualism