The PDP Governorship Candidate for Benue State in the 2027 election, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN, today advocated for language skills for regional trade and called for greater emphasis on language education, particularly French, as he attended the 28th Annual Conference of the National Association of Teachers of Languages in Colleges of Education and Polytechnics, held at the Federal Polytechnic, Wannune, where he served as the Distinguished Guest of Honour. Speaking at the conference, Chief Aondoakaa encouraged teachers and educational institutions to place greater emphasis on the teaching and learning of foreign languages, particularly French, given Nigeria’s geographical position and its proximity to several French-speaking countries.
He noted that proficiency in languages such as French would help Nigerian students communicate more effectively across borders and take advantage of opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by facilitating smoother regional trade and economic integration.
Chief Aondoakaa also expressed appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continuous support to the state and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Dr. George Akume, for his role in facilitating the establishment and development of the Federal Polytechnic, Wannune, during his tenure as Minister. He commended the Rector, Dr. Tyover Ashinya, and the management of the Polytechnic for what he described as their tireless efforts towards the rapid development of the institution.
Looking ahead to the 2027 governorship election, Chief Aondoakaa said that if elected Governor of Benue State, his administration would be anchored on security, economic growth, job creation, agriculture and rural infrastructure, among other priorities.
He emphasized that his vision is to build a safer, more productive and economically prosperous Benue where education, enterprise and human capital development are given the attention they deserve. The Conference was chaired by the Chairman, Governing Board, North Central Development Commission, NCDC, Dr. Cosmas Akighir.
