NEWS
What’s Going on with Education in Nigeria?
By Dakuku Peterside
Walk into almost any public school in Nigeria, and you feel the weight of history pressing down on the desks. Much of the system still operates to the rhythm of colonial-era regulations and syllabuses, which were conceived for a world that no longer exists.
The design, the assumptions, the teaching style—all of it points backwards. Students memorise facts to pass exams, teachers rush to “complete the syllabus,” and education officials track school success by the number of children registered, not by what or how they learn. The result is a production line that manufactures certificates but struggles to produce thinkers, innovators, or adaptable workers.Across the country, you hear the same complaints from employers: graduates who struggle with writing, problem-solving, collaboration, or basic digital skills. The disconnect is no longer anecdotal—it’s structural. It is an indictment of decades of denial, neglect, and inertia.Despite the deep-rooted problems, there’s a sense of optimism in the air. The 2024/2025 school year didn’t just bring new speeches and slogans, but also new tools—something that has long been missing from Nigeria’s education reforms: reliable, accessible, and actionable data. Until now, education planning in Nigeria was akin to weather forecasting without satellites. Budgets were allocated based on guesswork, and staffing decisions were influenced by local politics and exigencies rather than the needs of students. Dropout rates, learning outcomes, and school performance were largely unknown. However, with the advent of data-driven reform, even the most well-meaning interventions now have the potential to deliver results.But the fog is lifting, and what we’re beginning to see is as sobering as it is transformative. In the pilot phase of the Nigeria Education Information Management System (NEIMS), a digital infrastructure that collects and stores schools and individual student records, data from 11 states showed that approximately 12 million children were enrolled in primary school. Yet by junior secondary school, that number had dropped to 1.76 million, and only 1.23 million made it to senior secondary school. Nearly 9 million children disappeared from the system between Primary school and JSS/SSS. For decades, these gaps were obscured in averages or attributed to vague notions of poverty or culture. NEIMS is making the crisis real, personal, and measurable.What was once a distant problem is now a national emergency, starkly depicted in charts and decimals. These numbers don’t just represent policy failure, but also individual dreams cut short. Every dropout is a lost opportunity, a potential health worker, teacher, engineer, artist, or entrepreneur denied a future they were never properly introduced to. Girls are forced out of the system due to early marriage, household chores, or distance from schools. Boys drift into informal jobs, street vending, or crime. And now, for the first time, we can see the dropout spike in real-time. The Nigeria Education Information Management System (NEIMS) has illuminated the extent of our past failures.At the heart of this shift is not just data for the sake of data, but a recognition that without evidence, reform is merely rhetoric. NEIMS, championed by the Minister for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is Nigeria’s first serious attempt to build a nationwide, cloud-based, student-centred data system. Each child has a digital profile tracking their academic progress, behavioural records, attendance, health, and contact history. Teachers, school heads, ministry officials, parents, and even students themselves have role-based access to this information. This isn’t just a dashboard; it’s a lifeline for planning, equity, and accountability.Why does this matter so much? For the first time, we have education data across all levels of Nigeria’s education sector to support decision-making, policy analysis, planning , monitoring and management. Education planners can track precisely how many girls in Zamfara transitioned from Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) to Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1). School leaders in Bayelsa can identify precisely how many desks are missing before the next academic year. Because curriculum developers in Abuja can analyse where children consistently underperform and target support accordingly. Because parents can follow their children’s academic and behavioral growth, and teachers can tailor interventions for those at risk of falling behind. This is a quiet revolution—technical, yes, but also deeply human.Yet, as with any good data system, NEIMS is not just revealing problems. It’s also helping us ask better questions. For example, why are so few students choosing technical and vocational education (TVET)? In the same pilot data set, only about 63,000 students across the 11 states enrolled in technical colleges or vocational training centres, despite widespread demand for skills in construction, ICT, agriculture, and creative economy. This gap isn’t just an education issue — it’s a labour market crisis in slow motion. We are producing manygraduates who struggle to find employment, while employers face difficulties in finding skilled technicians, artisans, and service providers. It is a perfect storm of misalignment.Then there’s the curriculum itself. Even for those who stay in school, what they learn often bears little relation to what the economy requires. The national curriculum, rigid and outdated, still treats subjects such as entrepreneurship, coding, environmental literacy, and financial planning as optional or peripheral. The result is a generation of young people graduating with theoretical knowledge that does little to prepare them for modern jobs or civic life. We cannot discuss job creation or economic diversification without addressing this disconnect.Dr Alausa’s approach is not to overhaul the system overnight but to let data guide every step of change. His team is prioritising technical and vocational pathways as a legitimate and respected alternative for students who cannot — or choose not to — follow the traditional academic route. New funding and partnerships are being directed toward making TVET more accessible, aspirational, and aligned with industry needs. Online schooling is also being introduced for junior and senior secondary students, particularly in areas such as conflict zones, urban slums, coastal regions, and nomadic communities. By expanding access through technology, the system can reach children whom the traditional brick-and-mortar school model has long abandoned.While public schools dominate headlines, non-state schools (NSNs) — including faith-based, private, community, and home-school networks—teach an estimated 40 per cent of Nigerian children. Their growth has been explosive but uneven, with quality ranging from world-class to woeful. For years, they have operated in a grey area — serving a growing portion of the population but without consistent standards or oversight. The new National Policy on Non-State Schools (NPNSN) recognises their essential role, sets minimum standards for infrastructure, teacher qualification, and safety, and provides a regulatory framework to improve quality, safety, and collaboration. It also introduces a voucher system for out-of-school children enrolled in accredited non-state schools—a bold move toward inclusive financing. The message is clear: the government welcomes help but insists on rules.Meanwhile, reform is being localised and humanised through the Universal Basic Education, School-Based Management Committee and School Improvement Programme (SBMC-SIP). This initiative empowers communities to take real ownership of their schools by enabling them to manage small-scale infrastructure and accountability projects. Alongside this, the Teacher Professional Development (TPD) strategy seeks to rebuild the capacity of educators through new guides, peer mentoring, and a modular training rollout that supports the 2025/2026 curriculum shift. After all, no education system can rise above the quality of its teachers.By 2030, we should be able to log into NEIMS and see transition rates above 90 per cent in every state. We should see tripled enrolment in vocational education, gender parity in science classrooms, rising national assessment scores, and a decline in dropouts across every demographic. If the numbers stay stagnant, we will know that the momentum has been lost. That is the power — and discomfort — of real-time data: it holds us accountable to the children behind the statistics.For too long, Nigeria’s education debate has swung between despair and denial. The real task now is to occupy the hard but hopeful middle ground of stewardship — refusing to romanticise the past but also resisting cynicism about the future. That means rejecting the fantasy that reform will be easy — but also refusing the excuse that change is impossible. Stewardship means celebrating civil society tutors who coach girls after farm chores, critiquing budgets that underfund rural teacher housing, asking politicians for evidence rather than platitudes, and — above all — letting numbers guide our outrage and our hope. It means investing in data not as an end in itself but as a mirror that tells us who we are, and a compass that shows us where to go. It means elevating the voices of parents, teachers, and learners, not just policymakers. And it means asking more complex questions every year, not fewer.For the first time in a generation, the tools to do so are on the table. The servers are spinning, the dashboards are live, and the pilot data are whispering their truths. We are at a fragile but undeniable moment. What remains is collective resolve: from ministry war rooms in Abuja to chalk-dust-filled classrooms in Akwa Ibom, from software developers in Lagos to parent councils in Bauchi. If we listen to the data — and one another — we may yet turn Nigeria’s vast education deserts into fields of possibility, where every child’s potential is mapped, measured, and nurtured. If we choose to listen — carefully, consistently, courageously — then Nigeria may finally build an education system that doesn’t just enrol children but uplifts them. Not just a factory of certificates, but a ladder to opportunity. Not just a promise, but a plan. And this time, the plan is backed by numbers. The moment is fragile, but it is real. And it is ours to lose.Dakuku Peterside, a public sector turnaround expert, public policy analyst and leadership coach, is the author of the forthcoming book, “Leading in a Storm”, a book on crisis leadership.
From Ayinde Akintade, Osogbo
The Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has installed the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as the Yeye Asiwaju gbogbo Ile Oodua.
The installation ceremony took place yesterday at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, during the grand finale of activities marking the 10th Coronation Anniversary of Ooni Ogunwusi.
Rites were performed for Senator Oluremi Tinubu by traditional chiefs in accordance with ancient customs.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Ooni expressed deep appreciation to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her unwavering support over the years.
“She is the mother of the nation. Exactly 10 years ago, on the 7th of December 2015, she stood by me through thick and thin. I asked Baba Obasanjo to help me thank her because he accompanied me to several ancestral sites during those critical moments. Baba spent 16 straight hours with me when I was announced as Ooni of Ife. Today is not a day for long speeches, but I must sincerely thank President Bola Tinubu for his support and thank all of you for standing by our mother. She is indeed a merciful mother,” Ooni Ogunwusi said.
In her speech, Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed profound gratitude to God and described the honour as both humbling and divine.
She commended the Ooni for his visionary leadership, describing him as a young, wise, and progressive monarch whose reign has brought global visibility and renewed pride to the Yoruba race.
She expressed appreciation to the entire Ife Kingdom for their support for the Ooni throughout the last decade.
“The joy of the nation has come, and we are just beginning to celebrate. God has assured us that 2026 will be a year of joy, honour, and restoration, a year in which everyone will partake in renewed glory,” she added.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo lauded the Ooni for deeming the First Lady worthy of the prestigious title.
He urged Senator Tinubu to continue her humanitarian works, stressing that chieftaincy titles are traditionally bestowed on individuals of proven character.
“You have come to where you should belong. Continue your good works wherever you go. I am grateful to God that I witnessed the beginning of Ooni Ogunwusi’s reign and that I am here again to celebrate his 10th anniversary,” Obasanjo said.
In his goodwill message, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, praised Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a pillar of national development whose contributions have facilitated numerous impactful initiatives across the country.
Adeleke also extolled the Ooni’s remarkable decade of transformative leadership, highlighting his role in advancing Yoruba culture, fostering unity, and contributing significantly to community and national development.
“In 10 years, Kabiyesi has redefined leadership, using his exalted stool to promote peace, unity, and progress. His purposeful engagement and forward-looking initiatives have elevated Ile-Ife’s global visibility and strengthened the unity of the Yoruba race,” he said.
The governor further applauded the Ooni’s entrepreneurial investments, which have enabled job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development.
“Oba Adeyeye’s reign has greatly enhanced the cultural, social, and economic landscape of Ile-Ife. We pray that God grants him continued grace and good health to sustain his impactful leadership for many more decades,” he added.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, Soun of Ogbomosho, Ọba Ghandi Afọlábí all of whom graced the celebrations with their presence to pay tribute to the Ooni’s decade of impactful reign.
Among the top government officials in attendance were Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole; and the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi.
Also present were leading women of influence, including Kafayat Oyetola, wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy; Lilian Oghogho Musa, wife of the Minister of Defence; Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives; Dr. Ezinne Chinyere Kalu, wife of the Deputy Speaker; Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the Chief of Staff to the President; Mrs. Titilayo Adeleke, wife of the Osun State Governor; the Yeyelaje of Oodua, Toyin Kolade; and former Oyo First Lady, Florence Ajimobi.
A distinguished assembly of traditional rulers also thronged the venue, further highlighting the significance of the occasion. Present were the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo; Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Oyedotun; Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye; alongside many other royal fathers from across Yorubaland and Nigeria.
From Attah Ede, Makurdi
An ex- corps member and a recipient of Presidential Honour Award, Udokpo Abasi, at the weekend returned to the NYSC orientation camp Wannune and his place of primary assignment in Benue State to show appreciation for the support he garnered to win presidential award.
Abasi, former member of the Orientation Broadcasting Service(OBS) and the Editorial and Publicity CDS Group, visited the NYSC Orientation Camp in Wannune, Benue State, to express his gratitude for the platform the scheme provided him.
He was warmly received by the State Coordinator, Veronica Garba, the Camp Director, Yahuza Isa Adamu, and the Head of the Publicity and Protocol Committee, Victoria Ogwuche.
During the visit, he shared the principles that shaped his success and contributed to his recognition as a State and Presidential Honour Award recipient.
Abasi highlighted punctuality, regularity, determination, devotion to duty, loyalty, effectiveness, resilience, initiative, discipline, teamwork, and strong interpersonal relationships as key values that guided him during and after his service year. He encouraged Corps Members to embrace these virtues diligently.
He also commended the current batch for the teamwork and discipline he observed in camp, noting that such qualities remain central to personal progress and the continued legacy of excellence in the NYSC scheme.
He further motivated Corps Members to embark on purposeful projects, embrace responsibility, and maximise the opportunities available during the service year.
As part of his visit to Benue, Abasi also returned to his former place of primary assignment and his host community, where he once served as a Corps Member, to reconnect and express appreciation for the support he received.
Corps Members described his visit as inspiring and reaffirming, as it offered real life examples of the opportunities available through dedication and hard work.
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From Attah Ede, Makurdi
A global Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), International Alert has inaugurated Climate Project Steering Committee in Benue State, to tackle climate-induced conflicts and promote peace through Community dialogue.
The programme which is being supported by Irish Government, is meant to address the challenges of climate stress and conflicts by providing oversight and strategic guidance for implementing the Powering Peace through Climate Action project.
While inaugurating the state steering committee in Makurdi, the Senior Project Officer, International Alert, Kengkeng Ati, enjoined the State Steering Committee members to diligently tackle the dual challenges of climate stress and conflicts across the state.
He further urged the committee to provide oversight, strategic guidance, and recommendations for implementing the Powering Peace through Climate Action project.
“We are not simply urging communities to cease hostilities; we are investing in climate-smart solutions that offer livelihood options and alleviate tensions,” Ati emphasized.
Highlighting the climate challenges faced by Benue State, the Project Officer mentioned issues such as reduced rainfall, drying water sources, declining soil fertility, and abnormal weather patterns as indicators.
He underlined the urgent need to address these issues to prevent further disputes over land and resources.
Meanwhile, as part of measures to mitigate tensions, climate hubs have been set up in Fiidi and Agatu, offering services like weather monitoring, biogas production, briquette- making, fish drying, and solar-powered water supply.
This is in addition to fish ponds in Fiidi Community in Makurdi and Agatu which are being revitalized to enhance food security and income.
The project which is being implemented in collaboration with the Benue State Council on Climate Change, aims to empower local Communities and ensure the sustainability of climate hubs beyond the project’s one-year duration.
The inaugurated multi-stakeholder Steering Committee includes representatives from government ministries and parastatals, departments, agencies, and the private sector.
The Senior Project Officer highlighted the project’s objectives, which include raising awareness about climate change, developing local peace and adaptation plans, influencing government policies and funding, and providing sustainable livelihoods to reduce conflict triggers.
He encouraged Benue Communities to embrace new technologies and transition from conflict-prone systems to a more prosperous future.
In a presentation titled “Powering Peace Through Climate Action Project Phase II,” Mr. Ati shared insights from the project’s initial phase, which he confirmed had successfully united Communities and resolved resource-related conflicts through a climate-conflict analysis.
According to him, the project’s second phase would focus more on sustaining conflict sensitivity and climate adaptation efforts to engage diverse stakeholders.
Ati stressed the importance of collaboration among international stakeholders, government bodies, INGOs, and Community groups to harness climate adaptation for stakeholder empowerment.
Chairman of the Steering Committee, who is also the Director General of the SDGs Office in the State, Sir John Akuse pledged assured that the Project Steering Committee would provide unwavering dedication and top-tier support to the project team.
Other members of the Committee including Dr. Dan Mailumo, the Director General of Benue State Council on Climate Change, and Mrs. Josephine Habba, the Director General of Benue State Commission for Peace and Conflict, alongside other representatives from pertinent organizations, expressed their full support for the project and affirmed their commitment towards achieving the goals set by the Project Steering Committee.
It would be recalled that the International Alert, was established in 1986, with a mission to foster dialogue, research, advocacy, and outreach activities promoting peace and sustainable development.
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