By Ghazali Ibrahim
In a surprising twist to a heated online debate on X, a Briton known as Angantýr has outshine Nigerian challenger Ifedayo Johnson in an English proficiency test.
The test which was done online on the basis of Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) saw pool of supporters from both Nigerians and British.
The controversy began when Angantýr tweeted that the UK’s care sector was critically dependent on Nigerians who barely speak English.
The statement drew widespread criticism from Nigerians on social media.
In response, Ifedayo publicly challenged Angantýr to a comprehensive English language test, encompassing writing, listening, reading, and speaking components.
Both parties agreed to take the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) exam and share their results.
According to reports circulating online, Angantýr achieved a higher overall band score than Ifedayo, with 83% to 79% respectively.
This outcome has sparked renewed debate over the requirement for Nigerians to take English proficiency tests like IELTS when English is the country’s official language and the primary medium of instruction.
Critics argue that such tests are unnecessary and financially burdensome, especially considering that Nigeria ranks third in Africa and 28th globally in English proficiency, according to the Education First English Proficiency Index.
Groups like Policy Shapers have been campaigning for the UK Home Office to exempt Nigerians from English proficiency tests, highlighting the inconsistency of requiring such tests from citizens of English-speaking countries.
Their petition has garnered over 82,000 signatures.
While the recent test results have added complexity to the debate, many Nigerians continue to question the fairness and necessity of English proficiency tests for a country where English is widely spoken and used in official capacities.
