Prof. Bosede Sinmisola Sotiloye of FUNAAB Advocates for English Language Reform

By Olasunkanmi Olajide, Joy Adeyiga & Ridwan Sulaiman

At the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), a prominent Nigerian academic has advanced a bold call for comprehensive reform in the English language. Speaking at FUNAAB’s 104th Inaugural Lecture on September 17, 2025, Professor Bosede Sinmisola Sotiloye challenged traditional approaches to teaching and using English, advocating for changes that would make the language more accessible and relevant to learners worldwide—especially in Nigeria.

Titled “This ‘Weird’ English: Who is Afraid of Evolution?”, Prof. Sotiloye’s lecture highlighted the persistent difficulties posed by the English language’s inconsistent spelling and pronunciation. As an expert in Teaching English as a Second Language, she argued that these challenges particularly affect learners in non-native English-speaking countries. To overcome this, she proposed the adoption of a simplified, phonetic spelling system designed to ease learning and communication.

Prof. Sotiloye emphasized the urgency of adapting English to modern times, given its role as the most widely spoken second language globally. “Is anyone still afraid of this evolution?” she asked, urging governments, education policymakers, and global language bodies to lead efforts in reforming English to suit 21st-century realities, including its use in digital and global contexts.

Beyond spelling reforms, Prof. Sotiloye called for a transformation in English language education. She advocated for the establishment of state-of-the-art language laboratories to boost oral English skills and recommended increasing contact hours for English as a Second Language courses. Early introduction of listening and speaking skills in students’ education was stressed to promote greater fluency and confidence.

She also championed the integration of technology in English classrooms to transition from traditional teacher-centred models to dynamic, student-focused learning environments. Additionally, Prof. Sotiloye highlighted the importance of cultivating a reading culture among students, noting the strong link between reading proficiency and effective writing skills.

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The event, held at the Prof. Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building, drew academics, students, and distinguished guests. FUNAAB Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, chaired the lecture and praised Prof. Sotiloye’s scholarly achievements and dedication. He described her as a “pillar of communication and English studies in Nigeria,” whose work has significantly advanced teaching and research at the institution and beyond.

With over five decades of teaching experience and more than 50 scholarly publications, Prof. Sotiloye has stood out nationally and internationally. As an active member of the International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (IATEFL), the Linguistic Association of Nigeria (LAN), and the National Association of Teachers and Researchers of English (NATRESL), she continues to influence global dialogues on English language reform.

Her lecture sends a powerful message: Nigeria is poised to lead the worldwide evolution of English, combining academic excellence with innovative thinking to address long-standing linguistic challenges.