Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has called for the full integration of Arabic education into Nigeria’s formal education system, arguing that graduates of Arabic-speaking universities deserve equal recognition and employment opportunities.
The governor made the call while speaking at an event in Bauchi State, where he stressed the need for educational reforms that recognise qualifications obtained from accredited Arabic-language institutions.
According to him, many Nigerian graduates who studied in Arabic-speaking universities face challenges securing employment or gaining official recognition despite possessing relevant academic qualifications.
Mohammed said integrating Arabic education into the country’s mainstream education framework would promote inclusivity, reduce discrimination against graduates of Arabic institutions and enable them to contribute more effectively to national development.
He urged policymakers, education stakeholders and relevant government agencies to review existing policies to ensure that graduates from recognised Arabic-speaking universities receive equal treatment alongside graduates from English-speaking institutions.
The governor also emphasised the historical and cultural significance of Arabic education in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region, noting that many scholars have made valuable contributions to education, public administration and national development through Arabic scholarship.
His remarks have renewed discussions on the recognition of Arabic education in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that graduates from accredited institutions should enjoy equal opportunities regardless of the language of instruction. Others, however, believe any reform should maintain uniform academic standards and accreditation processes across all higher education institutions.
The call comes amid ongoing conversations about education reform, skills development and expanding access to quality education across the country.
