Arabic Culture in West Africa

Nigeria as an Example

Abstract

Arabic Language has a significant role in West Africa because of its old history in the region. Arabic cultures passed the large Sahara and reached the west from the north through commercial contact between traders which paved the way for Arabic Language and its literature in the entire region. This article discusses five major areas which have a significant impact on Arabic culture development. These areas include; Quranic Schools, Quran memorization schools, local Islamic schools, modern Arabic schools and the role of Arabic instructors in Nigerian universities. The objective of this research, therefore, is to appreciate west African scholars; especially the Nigerians’ efforts in developing Arabic culture. The inductive approach was used in this study and the findings revealed that Arabic schools in the region have a unique role and a vital contribution in Arabic culture surviving in western Africa, in general, and in Nigeria in specific.