William Ruto has sparked debate on social media after criticising Nigeria’s education system and English proficiency.
In a viral video sighted on Friday, the 59-year-old made the comparison while addressing Kenyans resident in Italy, highlighting his country’s human capital.
He said Kenya’s education system produces strong English proficiency, while Nigerians struggle with clarity when speaking the language.
Ruto stated that Kenya’s education and English standards are strong, adding that the country speaks some of the best English globally, and claimed that when Nigerians speak, it can be difficult to understand without a translator, even though they are speaking English.
He added that Kenya possesses some of the best human capital in the world and needs to further improve it through training.
As former British colonies, Nigeria and Kenya both use English as an official language, but each has developed distinct spoken forms with unique phonetic patterns.
Indigenous languages shape these variations; Nigeria, with over 500 languages, reflects this diversity in its rhythm and intonation, while Kenya’s blend of Bantu, Nilotic, and Cushitic languages also influences its accents.
According to a 2020 study by University of Cambridge, there is no “best” English accent, noting that effective communication is the most important factor.
Ruto’s comment sparked renewed debate on social media about the quality of education and language standards in both countries.
While some Nigerians agreed with his assessment, others rejected it, arguing that Nigeria has produced a Nobel Prize-winning author and several globally recognised writers and scholars.
Human rights activist and former senator, Shehu Sani, also criticised Ruto, stating that he was mocking a country that has produced a Nobel laureate in literature, as well as renowned figures like Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
NAN
