LANGUAGE AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: INSIGHTS FROM POLICY AND PRACTICE

Abstract

This study examines the critical role of language as a driver of national development in Nigeria, focusing on its impact across education, economic growth and governance. Despite a wealth of research on language and development, limited attention has been given to understanding the multifaceted role of language in Nigeria's national development, particularly in these key areas. The study adopted a qualitative research design, using document analysis, while incorporating relevant statistical data from secondary sources to support and contextualize the qualitative insights. Data were sourced from government publications (including the National Policy on Education and National Development Plans), international reports (World Bank, UNDP, UNICEF), and peer-reviewed studies. Grounded in Sapir-Whorf’s Linguistic Relativity theory and Gary Becker and Theodore Schultz’s Human Capital theory, the study identifies language as a key factor in national development. Language enhances literacy and human capital development in education, facilitates economic mobility and trade efficiency for economic development, and strengthens national cohesion and institutional efficiency in governance. Literacy, a key indicator of progress, has improved in Nigeria, reaching 69% in 2022. However, significant regional disparities persist. Language proficiency is linked to higher earnings and significantly influences trade and business. Additionally, constitutional and development frameworks rely on language to document and operationalise national visions. The study underscores the need for strategic language planning and inclusive policies to optimise the role of language in national development and ensure equitable participation in Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.

Keywords: Language, National development, Nigeria, Education, Governance