As we have known that Arabic, which by virtue of Islam, had established
itself in Nigeria as the language of administration, literacy,
education, history and legislation before the arrival of colonial
masters and had contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria as a
nation in the areas of religion, education, economy, socio-psychology,
diplomacy and security. It will not augur well to see this first foreign
language speaking by more than half of Nigerian population fading away
while we are still alive; things have to be done because is one of the
identities of Muslims.
There is no doubt that Nigeria as a Nation
has no any cultural ties whatsoever in any form or shape with French
language but we are surprised to see it elevated to the same status as
English while Arabic language and its schools are being relegated to the
back-water.
Under the new system of education which is divided into
three levels, there are about twelve compulsory core subjects with one
elective subject. English studies, Mathematics, Social Studies, Health
and Physical Education, Religious Studies as well as French are among
the compulsory subjects while Business Studies and Arabic are demoted
and given optional status.
One would also wonder why the language
that brought civilization to the present world and its schools (Arabic
schools) are being treated as non-formal education in our dear country? I
think this is why we are living as a Muslim to protect our language and
value our culture.
Remember Nigeria Defense Academy (NDA) where
Arabic department is now history, Arabic inscription in our naira notes
and now our educational sector. Why are we Muslims then when we cannot
protect our identity?
Ameer Ta’awun
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