Historic Milestone: House of Reps Approves Nigerian French Language Village Bill, Awaits Senate Green Light

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

French language Village and House of Representatives 

The House of Representatives has passed the Nigerian French Language Village (NFLV) Establishment Bill, marking a major leap toward granting legal recognition to the institution based in Badagry, Lagos State. The bill now moves to the Senate for concurrence before heading for Presidential assent.  

The announcement was made by Badagry Federal Constituency Representative, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, on April 14, 2025, during a visit by the newly appointed Director-General of the NFLV, Prof. Samuel Kolawole Oladipupo, and his management team at the lawmaker’s residence in Ibereko, Badagry.  

Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan 

Hon. Whingan hailed the bill’s passage as a landmark victory, emphasizing that the institution had functioned without legal backing since its creation. He stressed that his legislative push was fueled by a long-standing dedication to addressing the NFLV’s institutional and structural challenges.  

“Securing a legal framework for this institution has been one of my top legislative priorities,” Whingan stated. “This bill is a historic win for the NFLV and for French language education in Nigeria.”  

He also revealed ongoing collaboration with Senator Idiat Adebule (Lagos West) to fast-track the bill’s passage in the Senate. According to Whingan, both lawmakers are committed to jointly advocating for the President’s approval once the Senate endorses the bill.  

In response, Prof. Oladipupo thanked Rep. Whingan for his unwavering support and legislative efforts, acknowledging the lawmaker’s role in pushing for the institution’s federal recognition and statutory legitimacy.  

“Though I’m new to office, I’ve been fully briefed on Rep. Whingan’s consistent advocacy,”* Prof. Oladipupo said. “His dedication is invaluable to the future and sustainability of the Nigerian French Language Village.”

The bill’s passage is seen as a pivotal moment for the NFLV, Nigeria’s premier center for French language immersion and education. Stakeholders now await Senate approval and the President’s assent to finalize the long-awaited legal framework.