Reviving Indigenous Languages in Northern Nigerian Education

The article discusses the need to revive indigenous languages in Northern Nigerian education to address the low learning outcomes. Despite UNESCO's endorsement of mother tongue-based education, English is predominantly used in primary schools, causing cognitive overload for pupils who speak local languages like Hausa, Kanuri, and Fulfuld.

The article highlights successful pilot programs in Bauchi and Sokoto using Hausa as a medium of instruction. Advocates suggest a transition model where mother tongue is used in early education (Primary 1-2) before gradually introducing English.

This approach aims to boost children's confidence and learning outcomes.