In an era where effective communication is a key determinant of success, public speaking remains an undervalued skill in Nigerian education. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly and persuasively is essential not only in academics but also in professional and social settings. However, despite its significance, public speaking is often relegated to extracurricular activities, speech days, or debate clubs rather than being a fundamental part of the curriculum. This oversight limits students’ capacity to express themselves confidently, engage in critical discussions, and participate meaningfully in societal development.
If Nigerian secondary schools prioritised public speaking as a core subject, students would benefit immensely in their academic pursuits, career aspirations, and overall personal growth. From political leadership to corporate success, the ability to speak fluently and convincingly is a tool for influence and impact. The absence of structured public speaking training in schools means that many students graduate with little to no experience in articulating their thoughts before an audience, often struggling with anxiety, incoherence, or stage fright. Given Nigeria’s dynamic and competitive landscape, integrating public speaking into the secondary school curriculum is not just necessary but urgent.
Strong communication skills have a direct impact on academic performance. Students who are able to present their ideas clearly and persuasively tend to perform better in oral examinations, debates, and even written assignments. Public speaking teaches students how to organise their thoughts, develop logical arguments, and express themselves with clarity. These skills are transferable across subjects, particularly in disciplines like literature, government, and social sciences, where articulation and argumentation are essential.
Beyond individual expression, public speaking fosters classroom engagement. In many Nigerian schools, a significant number of students shy away from participating in discussions due to fear of speaking up. A structured public speaking programme would encourage more interactive and participatory learning, helping students to build confidence in expressing their opinions. This, in turn, enhances critical thinking and deepens comprehension, as students learn not just to memorise information but to explain, analyse, and debate it effectively.
Public speaking prepare students for the workforce. In today’s job market, strong communication skills are among the most sought-after attributes by employers. Many graduates struggle during job interviews and professional presentations due to a lack of exposure to structured speaking opportunities. Employers are increasingly prioritising candidates who can articulate their thoughts, persuade clients, and contribute meaningfully to workplace discussions. By introducing public speaking as a core subject in secondary schools, students would develop these essential competencies early, positioning them for success in their careers.
Public speaking also plays a critical role in entrepreneurship, an area where many Nigerian youths are now focusing their aspirations. Whether pitching a business idea, negotiating deals, or networking at industry events, the ability to speak effectively can be the difference between success and failure. An education system that nurtures strong communicators from an early age would produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of selling their ideas and leading confidently in the business world.
Public speaking is a cornerstone of leadership. Nigeria needs leaders who can communicate vision, inspire people, and articulate policies with clarity. Many young Nigerians shy away from leadership roles due to a lack of confidence in their ability to speak publicly. By making public speaking a mandatory subject in secondary schools, students would be better equipped to take up leadership positions within and beyond the school environment.
Furthermore, a society thrives when its citizens can express their views and engage in meaningful discussions about governance and development. Many Nigerians avoid public discourse on critical issues due to fear of speaking out or a lack of confidence in their communication skills. A generation that grows up with public speaking training would contribute more actively to national conversations, advocate for change, and hold leaders accountable. This is particularly important in a democratic society where civic participation is key to progress.
A major barrier to effective public speaking is fear. Many students experience anxiety when asked to speak before an audience, often due to a lack of exposure and practice. This fear extends into adulthood, affecting career opportunities and social interactions. Introducing public speaking as a subject would allow students to gradually build their confidence in a supportive learning environment. Through regular practice, constructive feedback, and professional coaching, students would develop the poise and assurance needed to communicate effectively in any setting.
Confidence in public speaking also extends to social interactions, making individuals more assertive and self-assured. Students who are trained in public speaking from an early age are likely to exhibit greater self-esteem, resilience, and adaptability—traits that are beneficial in both personal and professional life. These skills empower young people to stand up for themselves, negotiate better, and seize opportunities that require verbal expression.
Countries with advanced education systems recognise the importance of public speaking in student development. In nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Finland, communication skills are embedded in school curricula, ensuring that students graduate with the ability to express themselves fluently and persuasively. Nigeria’s education system, if it aspires to produce globally competitive graduates, must adopt a similar approach.
Globalisation has made it necessary for Nigerian students to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, both online and offline. Whether participating in international debates, writing competitions, or scholarship interviews, strong communication skills provide a competitive edge. If Nigeria fails to prioritise public speaking, its students may struggle to compete in global academic and professional spaces, limiting their potential and opportunities.
Integrating public speaking into the curriculum would require structured lesson plans, trained instructors, and practical assessment methods. Schools could introduce graded speech assignments, debates, and presentations as part of students’ coursework. Drama and storytelling sessions could also be incorporated to make learning engaging and interactive.
Teacher training is another crucial component. Educators must be equipped with the skills to teach public speaking effectively, using modern teaching methodologies and digital tools. Partnerships with media professionals, motivational speakers, and leadership coaches could further enrich students’ learning experiences, exposing them to real-world applications of public speaking.
Additionally, the use of technology can enhance learning outcomes. Virtual speech practice platforms, online debate forums, and interactive storytelling apps can help students refine their speaking skills beyond the classroom. Schools can also organise speech competitions at local, state, and national levels to encourage participation and showcase talent.
Public speaking is an indispensable skill that should not be left to chance or extracurricular activities. It plays a fundamental role in academic excellence, career development, leadership, and civic engagement. In a country like Nigeria, where effective communication is crucial for national progress, failing to incorporate public speaking into secondary education would be a missed opportunity. By making it a core subject, Nigerian schools would be preparing students for success in various aspects of life, equipping them with the confidence, articulation, and critical thinking abilities needed to thrive in the modern world. The transformation of Nigeria’s education system must go beyond theoretical knowledge to include practical, life-enhancing skills. If public speaking becomes an integral part of secondary school education, the nation would benefit from a generation of confident, eloquent, and influential individuals ready to shape the future.
