Investigating Language Barriers to Adult Literacy Programmes in Kebbi State: A Needs Assessment Study

This study investigates the language barriers that impede the effectiveness of adult literacy programmes in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Adult literacy remains a significant development challenge in northern Nigeria, and the mismatch between programme delivery languages and the linguistic realities of learners is a frequently cited but insufficiently documented obstacle. The study adopts a descriptive needs assessment methodology informed by the framework of community literacy and language ecology. Data were collected from three adult literacy centres in Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Yauri through learner interviews, facilitator focus group discussions, and classroom observation over a six-week period. A total of 90 learners and 15 facilitators participated in the study. The analysis examines programme language medium, learner language backgrounds, comprehension levels, and facilitator language competencies. Findings reveal that most adult literacy facilitators use formal written Hausa and English in instruction, while a significant proportion of learners are more proficient in Kebbi Hausa dialect or the Zarma language variety, creating comprehension gaps that undermine learning outcomes. The study also identifies low facilitator awareness of linguistic diversity as a barrier to adaptive teaching. Recommendations include the development of dialect-sensitive adult literacy materials and facilitator training in language-responsive adult education pedagogy in Kebbi State. Keywords: adult literacy, language barriers, Kebbi State, literacy programmes, language ecology.