By Musa Umar Bologi
Abuja
The Nigerian Army has given all personal up till December 2018 to learn the three major languages in the country.
It stated that “the directive is part of the new language policy introduced by the army.”
“The study of foreign and local languages is world-wide practice among armies, in which officers and soldiers are encouraged to be multi-lingual.
“The policy will foster espirit-de-corps and better communication with the populace to enhance information gathering, civil-military relations, increase understanding between militaries when operating abroad and assist officers and soldiers to perform their duties professionally,” army spokesperson, Brig.- Gen. Sani Usman, said.
He added: “It is to be noted that English remains the official language in the Nigerian Army. Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa languages could be used during Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities or interrogation.
“Therefore, all Nigerian Army personnel have been given one year to learn the three major Nigerian languages. Invariably, by December 2018, all Nigerian Army personnel are expected to learn the three major Nigerian languages.
“The standard of proficiency to be attained is the basic level. Certificated proficiency level will attract Language Allowance.”
He said ability to speak the three major Nigerian languages would be an added advantage to those applying for recruitment or commissioning into the Nigerian Army.
“Therefore, prospective candidates are encouraged to learn Nigerian languages other than their mother tongues.”
