Challenges Associated with Utilising Language as an Economic Resource in Nigeria

Sustainable economic development requires proper integration of diverse national resources, material and linguistic. Therefore, this paper examined the philosophical challenges of using language as an economic asset in Nigeria. Drawing on linguistic capital theory, it argues that language constitutes an economic asset for Nigeria, though not without circumventable challenges.  As a qualitative research, it conceptually analysed dominant concepts related to the topic using previous studies and the authors’ intuition. The findings showed that, though language constitutes an economic asset to Nigeria, it also raises philosophical issues, such as whether its use undermines language's intrinsic value, leads to epistemic injustice, and denies linguistic rights. It also raises questions about language ownership. Therefore, this study concluded that Nigeria's multilingualism remains a valuable asset worthy of investment, notwithstanding some challenges. Besides, it recommends that governmental policies be enacted to ensure the optimal utilisation of all Nigerian languages, while simultaneously integrating them with the predominant global language, considering the current emphasis on globalisation and scientific advancement.