(Department of French, Nasarawa State University, Keffi., 2022-03-12) Ijah, Gideon Akase
The main thrust of this article is to bring out remedial measures aimed at assisting struggling readers
to attain a good level of proficiency in public secondary schools in Benue State. The study examined
the state of reading in public secondary schools in Benue State during critical stage; it investigates
the effects of poor reading skills on students' academic performance. This is with a view to advocating
for improved strategies. The study found that the reading ability of the present students in Benue
State public secondary schools is appalling. The results further revealed that many students in public
secondary schools lack basic reading skills because they missed the critical period of learning reading
and carry over the poor reading ability from primary school to secondary schools. The effects of poor
reading skills are negative attitude to study, anti-social behavior and poor academic performance.
The study therefore recommends improved strategies on part of the government, policy makers and
teachers.