The House of Representatives has passed the bill to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu University of Nigerian Languages on the first reading.
Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker, and eight other lawmakers—Inuwa Garba, Nasiru Shehu, Alex Ikwechegh, Bako Useni, Amobi Ogah, Akin Rotimi, Halims Abdullahi, and Felix Nwaeke—are championing the bill.
The university, which is planned to be situated in Aba, Abia state, will advance the study of Nigerian languages and culture for the nation’s progress. The institution will provide educational and professional programs, such as diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate research, specifically emphasising Nigerian languages and cultures.
It also seeks to produce socially mature individuals capable of using Nigerian languages to develop the nation.
Additionally, the university will collaborate with other Nigerian language and cultural institutions, offering fundamental training and fostering national unity.
According to Section 14(2) of the bill, the president will serve as the university’s “visitor.”
The bill must undergo a second reading, public hearing, third reading, and Senate concurrence before it is presented to the president for approval.