Federal government has been urged to adopt Arabic as an alternative official language in the country.

A professor of Arabic at Kwara State University, Malete (KWASU), Hamzat AbdulRaheem made the call while briefing newsmen on activities lined up to mark the 60th anniversary of Darul Uloom Arabic School, Ilorin, Kwara State.

He said upon adoption as an official language, Arabic could be used as a language of instruction in the nation's educational institutions as is done in Arab countries.

“Upon adoption, Arabic could be used to teach all the science subjects in our secondary and tertiary institutions. This will enable students of Arabic to further their education in the nation's tertiary institutions without any hindrance,” AbdulRaheem stated.

Describing Arabic schools as veritable channels for moral, and religious upbringing, the university lecturer asked the Kwara State government to come to the aid of the Arabic school with provision of grant that would make it perform such functions more effectively.

AbdulRaheem, who said that the Arabic school had contributed to moral education in Ilorin community over the years, with the production of scholars, professionals and academics, added that the state government could grant aid to the school in the form of building of structures, provision of books, amongst others.

He also said that social vices, especially, among the youth would be curbed with moral and religious education taught in Arabic schools.

“In view of the above, we are using this opportunity to appeal to the state government to assist Darul Uloom by taking over the payment of salaries of teachers depending on their qualifications. In addition, some Arab countries may be contacted to send teachers of science subjects in Arabic, which would make them diversify their areas of study when they have the opportunity to study in the Arab world.

“All support so far given by the state government to Arabic education is highly appreciated and we seek for more support for the overall development of Arabic education in the state,” he said.

Darul Uloom Arabic school in Isale-Koto, Ilorin was established in 1963 by the 9th Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Zulkarnaini Gambari in collaboration with the Ulamaa and Imams in llorin.

The programme of events for the celebration of the school's 60th anniversary include special Friday prayer at llorin Central Mosque, award presentation/book launch under the chairmanship of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's as well as special debate on the future of Arabic in Nigeria.