Department of
LINGUISTICS, AFRICAN AND ASIAN STUDIES
Welcome to Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies
Welcome to the Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies at the University of Lagos.
We are delighted to have you explore our vibrant academic community, where the study of African and Asian languages and cultures meets cutting-edge research and innovative scholarship. Our department is committed to excellence in teaching, research and cultural engagement, providing students and scholars with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to thrive in a multilingual and interconnected world.
Whether you are a student, researcher or visitor, we invite you to join us in celebrating linguistic diversity, advancing intercultural understanding and shaping the future of language studies.
Prof. Chigozie Bright Nnabuihe
Head, Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies
Our Vision
To be a leading centre of excellence in linguistic scholarship and interdisciplinary language studies in Africa, advancing research, cultural understanding and global engagement through the study of African and Asian languages.
Our Mission
The Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies is committed to academic excellence by providing high-quality teaching and research in theoretical and applied linguistics, African and Asian languages, and intercultural communication.
It promotes language preservation and development through the documentation, revitalisation and modernisation of indigenous African languages, while fostering a deeper understanding of Asian languages and cultures.
The Department advocates interdisciplinary research by encouraging innovative studies that integrate linguistics with technology, digital humanities, artificial intelligence, translation studies and sociocultural analysis. It strengthens global and local engagement by fostering academic collaboration within Nigeria, across Africa and internationally, while addressing linguistic and cultural challenges in multilingual societies.
Finally, the Department is dedicated to producing graduates equipped with critical thinking skills, multilingual proficiency, research competence and intercultural awareness for successful careers in academia, diplomacy, education, media, business and public service.
About the Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies
The Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies at the University of Lagos is an academic unit within the Faculty of Arts that focuses on the study of language structure, use, theory and cultural contexts, with specific emphasis on both African and Asian languages. It traces its roots back to programmes designed to teach major Nigerian languages to non-native speakers, reflecting a long history of commitment to language education and scholarship at UNILAG.
The Department offers a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree with various language and linguistics options, including programmes in Linguistics, Linguistics with Igbo, Yoruba and Chinese components, preparing students for academic and professional careers that require deep language competence and cultural insight.
The Department actively engages in workshops, research initiatives and scholarly events that explore the role of linguistics in contemporary contexts — such as the integration of indigenous languages with digital technologies including artificial intelligence — demonstrating how linguistic expertise contributes to innovation and the preservation of cultural heritage. Recent departmental activities have brought together scholars, technologists and language advocates to explore how AI can support language accessibility and research.
Faculty and students within the Department contribute to academic literature and research, as evidenced by the scholarly papers and studies emerging from its communities of researchers and learners.
Programmes
Undergraduate Programmes
- B.A. Linguistics
- B.A. Linguistics/Igbo
- B.A. Linguistics/Yorùbá
- B.A. Chinese Studies
Postgraduate Programmes
- M.A. Igbo (Language option)
- M.A. Igbo (Literature option)
- M.A. Yorùbá (Language option)
- M.A. Yorùbá (Literature option)
- Ph.D Igbo (Language option)
- Ph.D Igbo (Literature option)
- Ph.D Yorùbá (Language option)
- Ph.D Yorùbá (Literature option)
