Language as a Tool for National Cohesion and Development in Nigeria

Abstract

Language is an important part of nationality given that it is one of the main components of national identity. Being multi-ethnic and multilingual, Nigeria needs to be effective in her use of language to help her remain united and develop as a nation. This paper looks at the role that language plays in socio-cultural life, education, and politics of Nigeria. It employs library information with focus on the use of language as a tool for national cohesion and development in Nigeria. The article posits that language can be more instrumental to Nigeria’s development economically, politically, socially and culturally, with the people remaining united in diversity. It shows that governance, socio-cultural interactions, and education cannot be successfully achieved in a given nation outside language. It is thus a necessary agent for peace, harmony, unity and progress in every nation. The paper recommends English as a lingua franca that should be taught to every Nigerian for better integration within the system.  It concludes that language is a major tool if cohesion and national development are to be achieved in the nation.