Nigeria ranks fifth best english-speaking country in Africa — EF EPI 2025
Nigeria has been ranked as the fifth-best English-speaking country in Africa, according to the 2025 Education First English Proficiency Index (EF EPI).
The ranking, released by global education organisation Education First (EF), assesses English language proficiency among non-native English-speaking countries and territories worldwide. Nigeria’s placement reflects a strong command of the English language, which remains the country’s official language and a key medium for education, governance, business, and international communication.
Analysts attribute Nigeria’s performance to the widespread use of English across its diverse population, its role as the primary language of instruction in schools, and the influence of English in media, technology, and the creative industry.
The EF English Proficiency Index is widely regarded as a benchmark for measuring adult English skills, drawing data from millions of test-takers globally. Nigeria’s position among the top five in Africa underscores its continued relevance in global communication and highlights the importance of language proficiency in driving economic growth, education, and international competitiveness.
The report also reignites discussions on the need to further strengthen language education, especially in public schools, to sustain and improve the country’s standing in future rankings.
