Commission Approves Study Of Nupe, Tiv Languages In Universities

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has begun development of the Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) for new programmes in Nupe and Tiv languages in Nigerian universities.
Executive secretary of the commission, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, has approved the engagement of experts from universities across the country to design the CCMAS components for the Bachelor of Arts in Tiv and Nupe.

The commission said in an article published on its website that the curriculum development exercise took place at the NUC Secretariat from October 21 to 24, 2025 with professors from various universities participating in the four-day session.

Acting director of academic planning, Mallam Abubakar Girei, represented by the deputy director of curriculum development and planning, Dr Esther Mmeka, led the resource persons on a courtesy visit to the executive secretary.

During the visit, Professor Ribadu officially flagged off the development process for the two programmes.
Ribadu commended the team for responding to the commission’s call and urged them to undertake the assignment with diligence and excellence.

He expressed delight that the NUC was on the verge of developing CCMAS for more indigenous languages, adding that the initiative would deepen teaching and research in local linguistic heritage.

Responding on behalf of the teams, the lead resource persons for the Tiv and Nupe programmes, Professors Mary Adebayo and Rebecca K. D. pledged to work assiduously to produce a framework that would enhance teaching and research in both languages.

The Tiv panel comprises Professors Muhammad Alkali and Musa Bawa, with Florence Onuoha and Chinenye Augustine serving as representatives of the NUC.

The Nupe panel comprises Professors John Akosu Adeiyongo and Nguton Sambe, while Kate Omotayo Onaiyekan and Hadiza Kalla represent the commission.