By Tunde Akanbi, Ilorin
Last updated Oct 25, 2023
The Nigerian Government has been urged to consider Arabic as an alternative language of instruction in the country.
Professor Hamzat Abdulraheem, the Dean of Postgraduate School at Kwara State University, KWASU, Malete, made this appeal in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State in North Central Nigeria.
He emphasized that Arabic served as the official administrative and religious communication in Nigeria prior to the arrival of Europeans on the continent.
Professor Abdulraheem believes that reintroducing Arabic as a language of instruction would greatly benefit students who wish to pursue their studies in this medium.
While addressing journalists at the NUJ Press Center, Professor Abdulraheem expressed these views during the flag-off ceremony for the 60th anniversary celebration of Darul-Uloom, Isalekoto, an esteemed Arabic and Islamic school in Ilorin, established by the late Ilorin-born Islamic scholar, Shaykh Adam Abdullahi Al-Ilory.
“Arabic was the language of communication, both administratively and religiously, in Nigeria before the arrival of Europeans. Additionally, there are regions in Nigeria where Arabic is spoken as a mother tongue, such as the Shua Arab in Borno State. While their Arabic may be colloquial, we cannot overlook the fact that Arabic played a significant role in the development of sciences, mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics for the Western world,” he stated.
Professor Abdulraheem clarified that the proposal is not suggesting that governmental agencies or legislative bodies should communicate in Arabic. Rather, it aims to provide an alternative language of instruction to cater to those who are keen on studying Arabic.
Abdulraheem, one of the first students of Darul-Uloom, also urged the Kwara State Government to take over the salaries of teachers in Arabic schools, based on their qualifications.
Furthermore, he called upon the state government to establish contact with Arab countries to facilitate the recruitment of science teachers who can instruct in Arabic. This would provide students with opportunities to diversify their areas of study and gain exposure to the Arab world.
During the conference, which was attended by alumni of Darul-Uloom, Professor Abdulraheem expressed his gratitude to the state government for its support in advancing Arabic education. He also called for further support to foster the overall development of Arabic education in the state.
He stated, “If it is not feasible for the government to take over Arabic schools due to potential social or religious implications, alternative ways of assisting these schools must be explored. Arabic schools are crucial contributors to the development of education in general, particularly moral education,” Abdulraheem emphasized.
“The remuneration earned by Arabic teachers is meager, and witnessing their dedication would make one realize the urgent need for better salaries. If the government decides to intervene by providing support to Arabic schools, it may not necessarily entail salary increments. Assistance can be rendered through infrastructure development, book supplies, or financial subventions,” explained Professor Abdulraheem.
As part of the 60th anniversary celebration of the Arabic school, several programs have been scheduled, including special Friday prayers at the Ilorin Central Mosque, an award presentation chaired by the State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and a debate on the future of Arabic in Nigeria.
