THE IMPORTANCE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE IN THE NIGERIAN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

Maria Olanrewaju Ewulo

Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa, Ogun State

E-mail: ewulomaria1960@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Several decades post-colonial era, it is significant that the English language is an invaluable colonial legacy which has been used to express Nigerian culture. The English language is so indispensable to Nigeria that it still serves as a unifying language in the country. This paper examines the advent of English language into Nigeria and its role in the Nigerian educational system. The concepts of language and education are discussed; the Nigerian Language Policy (NLP) and the place of the English language in Nigeria are examined. In conclusion, possible steps to enhance the standard of English as a medium of consolidating Nigerian education are proffered. In response to the call for a unified Nigerian language, if there is going to be a change from the existing system, the change must be strategic taking into consideration the socio-political, economic, educational factors, along with linguistic pluralism and international connectivity. On the whole, the English language is found to be invaluable in Nigerian educational system and must be given proper attention in policy making and curriculum development.