A well-known university in Canada has removed Nigeria from its list of countries whose students have to present proof of English proficiency before gaining admission.
This means that Nigerians who want to study at Athabasca University, no longer need to present IELTS, TOEFL, and other English tests before registration.
This latest recognition of Nigeria as an English-speaking country came after a protest letter sent to the institution by a Nigerian academic, Dr. Olumuyiwa Igblalajobi.
The waiver came after Athabasca University received a protest letter from Dr. Igblajobi, enumerating reasons why Nigerians should not have to present an English test.
According to Dr. Igblajobi, since Nigeria teaches its children in English from elementary to tertiary level, this means the country is an English-speaking country. He also argued that English is the official language of business in Nigeria, hence no need for further tests.
Dr. Igbalajob also said it is not good that countries colonized by Britain are still being asked to prove they can speak English.
His words: “It’s bad to request IELTS from African countries colonized by the British. I have written about 12 universities to date. I will continue to identify universities with stale lists and those who wouldn’t recognize Nigeria as an English-speaking country.”
In response to the letter, the school has now updated the list as it has recognized Nigeria as an English-speaking country.
A very big thank you to Dr. Olumuyiwaayo Igbalajobi for engaging Athabasca University to seek this exemption for Anglo Africans!
