Nigeria has been ranked as the fifth-best English-speaking country in Africa according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) report.
The EF report analyzed English skills in 123 countries and regions using data from 2.2 million test-takers.
According to The Punch, this year’s edition also included, for the first time, speaking and writing skills, measured using artificial intelligence technology developed by EF’s education technology arm. “English remains the world’s most widely shared language for international communication. In a time of growing global complexity, its role as a common bridge between cultures, economies, and ideas is more important than ever,” said Kate Bell, author of the EF EPI and EF’s Head of Assessment.
Globally, South Africa’s English language skills ranked 13th in the world and first in Africa, making it the highest-ranked country on the continent. It is closely followed by Zimbabwe, which also ranked 13th globally and second in Africa. Kenya and Zambia ranked 19th and 27th globally, placing them third and fourth in Africa, while Nigeria ranked 29th worldwide, emerging as the fifth-best English-speaking country in Africa.
English, Nigeria’s official language, remains central to education, governance, media, and business, helping the country maintain strong proficiency levels. On the African continent, Nigeria trails South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Zambia, which lead in English proficiency. The rankings underscore the growing importance of English as a bridge for international communication, education, and commerce.
Top 10 English-Speaking Countries in Africa (EF EPI 2025):
- South Africa – Widespread use in government, education, media, and business.
- Zimbabwe – English is the primary language of instruction and administration.
- Kenya – Official language alongside Swahili, widely used in urban and professional settings.
- Zambia – English is the official and main medium of instruction.
- Nigeria – Official language, central to national communication and commerce.
- Ghana – English is used from basic to tertiary education and in public administration.
- Uganda – Official language; key role in trade, diplomacy, and professional environments.
- Ethiopia – Widely used in education and international affairs, though not official.
- Tunisia – Growing adoption among youth and professionals in education, tech, and tourism.
- Morocco – Increasing popularity in schools and business for global trade and relations.
