LANGUAGE AS A TOOL FOR ACHIEVING MDGS: THE NIGERIAN SITUATION (Published)
This paper examines the need for language in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It particularly looks at Nigeria situation in this respect; that is the inputs of Nigerian indigenous languages to achieving MDGs. The study adopts a quantitative method of data analysis. Eradication of poverty and hunger; universal primary education; gender equality; reduction of child mortality; improving maternal health; combating HIV/AIDS and other diseases; sustainable development; global partnerships cannot be properly achieved without the inputs of language. And the language(s) people speak (their mother tongue) is in the best position in this wise. Although Nigeria is a multilingual nation, her ethnolinguistic diversities should be seen as a resource for sustainable human and national development. This is because different people from different ethnolinguistic groups can be educated and/or trained in their own languages about the benefits of MDGs, and their diverse contributions toward achieving these goals will be vitally important. The place of language in any form of developmental struggle or initiative cannot be compromised. Language is, therefore, a good tool for achieving MDGs.