Advancing English Language Education Policy in Consideration of Multilingualism on National Integration in Nigeria

This paper is an exposition of the effects of multilingualism on national integration in Nigeria and the need for advancing English language education policy. Ever since its independence, Nigeria is yet to achieve the value of oneness and unity in diversity. The insurgence of ethno-cultural, religious, political, economic, and other tensions and conflicts in Nigeria have continued to undermine concerted efforts to achieve the desired national integration in Nigeria. In this paper, we argued that much like other ethnocentric dividing factors, the state of multilingualism in Nigeria has further led to ethnic division and national disintegration. Thus, the paper stresses on the value of strengthening English language education policy in Nigeria. The paper highlighted some of the challenges in maintaining English language as a medium of learning in Nigerian schools, past and present; and went further to suggest that a central language of communication and learning like English can encourage cohabitation and acceptance among the various ethnic groups. The paper identified those features of ethnic languages that militate against proper national integration within a single polity. The paper stresses that national integration can be achieved if Nigerians depoliticize language policy in the country, and emphasize on how English language as a common element can foster unity, understanding and development. The paper revealed the benefits English language policy in Nigeria can offer not just in national integration, but also in the advancement of the country in the international community.