INTERROGATING THE CHALLENGES THAT MILITATE AGAINST THE TEACHING AND LEARNING OF FRENCH IN NIGERIA AND WAY FORWARD

The French language is an international language of communication. It is the second official language in Nigeria and every Nigerian citizen is expected to communicate effectively in French, just like the English language. Being able to converse fluently in French language can become a ticket for greater global opportunities for Nigerians. This is a wake-up call for collaborative efforts by all Nigerians to revitalize French language education in Nigeria. The teaching and learning of French language in Nigeria driven by French language instructors is faced with multifaceted challenges which obstruct the successful actualization of French as the second official language in Nigeria. These significant setbacks are not improving the development of the French language education in Nigeria. This paper is hinged on the humanistic approach in language education which focuses on the learner as a person and the importance of the individual’s personal growth in the learning process. It highlights the reasons why Nigerians should desire to learn the French language, showcasing the importance and benefits of communicating effectively in French language in a world that has become a global village. It highlights challenges faced by instructors in French language education and provides recommendations to address these issues, advocating for increased investment in training of French instructors, provision of adequate instructional materials and resources and many more. By addressing these challenges, Nigerians can improve the effectiveness of French language education thereby expanding opportunities for Nigerian citizens in the global francophone world. Key words: Second language challenge, French teaching and learning, French language education, multilinguistic environment, international diplomacy, francophone world.