Problems with Literacy in Nigerian Languages: Implication for National Language Policy and Development

Abstract

This work examines problems associated with literacy in Nigerian languages with the aim of identifying the implication for national language policy on the one hand, and national development in Nigeria on the other. The paper relies on relevant literature, empirical data and findings from earlier research works in isolating some of the issues (with reading and writing, and with prospective pedagogy) in native Nigerian languages. This is against the backdrop of the
unrelenting calls for prioritization of (even if only the leading) native languages in Nigeria, with regard to the nation’s language policy in order to better propel socio-economic growth and national development. The present study therefore contributes to the on-going debates on Nigeria’s language policy, and on the role, prospect as well as problems attributive to (such largely unwritten) native languages, in the country’s policy-making and national development.