The Role of French Language Education in Promoting Nigeria-Francophone Africa Relations: A Study of University of Jos Students

Nigeria's diplomatic and economic relationships with francophone African nations have grown significantly in the post-colonial period, yet the role of French language education in facilitating these relationships among the educated Nigerian youth population has received limited empirical attention. This study examines the perceptions of University of Jos students regarding the role of French language education in promoting Nigeria's relations with francophone African countries. A descriptive survey design was used, with 250 students drawn from the Departments of French, Political Science, and International Relations at the University of Jos serving as respondents. A structured questionnaire covering awareness of Nigeria-francophone relations, attitudes toward French learning, and perceived diplomatic utility of French language competence was used for data collection. Results indicate that students with formal French language training demonstrate significantly higher awareness of diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and francophone countries and express stronger positive attitudes toward regional cooperation. However, the majority of respondents from non-French departments reported limited exposure to French and expressed uncertainty about its relevance to their career goals. The study argues that French language education should be repositioned as a strategic component of Nigeria's foreign policy training at federal universities in the North Central zone. Recommendations include expanding French language as a general studies requirement and integrating francophone African studies into political science curricula. Keywords: French language education, Nigeria-francophone relations, diplomacy, University of Jos, regional cooperation