The Role of German Language Proficiency in the Career Advancement of Nigerian Academics in German-Speaking Universities

This study examines the role of German language proficiency in the career advancement of Nigerian academics currently employed or undertaking postdoctoral research at universities in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, with a sample drawn from academics affiliated with institutions in North East Nigeria prior to their departure. The internationalisation of higher education has created new pathways for Nigerian academics to build research careers in German-speaking academic environments, but the linguistic demands of navigating these institutions, particularly in terms of grant applications, committee participation, and teaching responsibilities, are not well understood. The study employs a qualitative inquiry design, conducting narrative interviews with 18 Nigerian academics in German-speaking universities, exploring their language learning journeys, institutional integration experiences, and perceptions of German language as a career resource. Findings indicate that English alone is increasingly insufficient for full institutional participation, and that proficiency in German significantly influences access to collaborative research networks, committee appointments, and permanent academic positions. Participants who invested in German language acquisition prior to or early in their postdoctoral period report faster professional integration and greater job satisfaction. The study recommends that Nigerian universities incorporate pre-departure German language training into international academic fellowship preparation programmes. Keywords: German language proficiency, Nigerian academics, career advancement, German-speaking universities, academic internationalisation.