The federal government says it is committed to bridging the language gap between Nigeria and Bénin Republic in order to deepen diplomatic engagements and facilitate trade between the two countries.
This is contained in a statement issued by Kauthar Gwarzo, principal information and public relations officer, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) in Abuja on Thursday.
Mr Gwarzo said that Yusuf Yakub, NTAC director-general, made this known during a visit to Benin Republic’s minister of higher education and scientific research, Eleonore Ladekan, in the country’s capital, Cotonou.
He said Mr Yakub explained that the visit was aimed at mitigating the barriers of communication in order to enhance trade development and other bilateral ties between the two countries.
Mr Gwarzo said the DG noted that the NTAC scheme was capable of fostering South-South cooperation generally, and also facilitated trade and development among African, Caribbean and the Pacific (ACP) countries.
“Nigeria is committed to closer cooperation with its next-door neighbour, the Republic of Benin, in the area of language learning and exchange between the two countries.
“Our aim is to try to mitigate the barriers placed by language in the process of fostering deeper relationships among our people, which is the long-term ideal of every diplomatic effort.
“This will bolster trade between both countries and lead to better economic outcomes for everyone because we know that wherever language is a barrier, progress is limited,” Mr Yakub was quoted as saying.
The NTAC DG further explained that Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts in that regard were informed by the need to reap the enormous gains which were at stake for both countries.
“From this collaboration, we intend to deploy a number of English Language teachers to your country, so that we can facilitate effective learning and acquisition of English Language.
“We will also learn French. As I said earlier, the goal is to bring down the linguistic divide that exists between our countries.
“By doing so, we will enhance all other aspects of our bilateral engagements, including trade, services and cultural exchange,” he said.
Responding, the minister thanked the delegation for the visit, and extended her country’s gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continuous dedication and commitment to the development of ACP countries through NTAC.
Ms Ladekan also expressed gratitude for the establishment of the Nigerian International School in Cotonou, which she said, had achieved so much in the country over the years.
She expressed Bénin’s desire to partner with NTAC to explore more opportunities, and also affirmed the country’s commitment to sustaining and expanding cooperation with Nigeria for mutual benefits.
Mr Yakub was accompanied on the visit by NTAC’s director of programmes, Amb. Zakari Usman, and some officials of the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou.
In the minister’s team were Ahounouikpe Judith, Gbenou Victoria, Lalaye Philippe, Youssa Juaka and Akpovi Salvadore.