KEY POINTS
- Tinubu’s education plan addresses Nigeria’s 18.3 million out-of-school children.
- Vocational training complements classroom reintegration efforts.
- Security improvements and food security underpin education recovery.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing the nation’s education crisis, with a sharp focus on the alarming number of out-of-school children.
In a discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, Tinubu underscored the urgency of innovative solutions to reintegrate millions of children who remain excluded from formal education.
The Nigerian leader emphasized a dual approach, combining return-to-class programs with vocational training, ensuring children not only receive traditional education but also practical skills essential for navigating today’s evolving job market.
A National strategy for educational recovery
“Motivation and skills acquisition are central to resolving the current educational crisis,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing that education is foundational to Nigeria’s long-term development. Joined by his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as well as Macron and Brigitte Macron, the discussion highlighted a shared commitment to advancing education as a critical pillar of economic and social growth.
According to a statement from Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government is focusing on bridging the education gap, especially for older children who have missed out on schooling. “We will emphasize skills development to address the needs of these children,” Tinubu explained, acknowledging the disruptions caused by insecurity and other challenges.
Education and security: interconnected challenges
Security issues, particularly in northern Nigeria, remain a major obstacle to educational access. Tinubu confirmed that efforts to restore order and bring children back into classrooms are already underway. “We are gradually repopulating classrooms and using skills development as a bridge,” he said, reiterating that educational recovery is inextricably linked to broader security improvements.
The government’s “kinetic” security strategies, which aim to restore peace and stability, are seen as essential in fostering a conducive environment for education. Tinubu also pointed to recent agricultural successes, which he believes will help combat food insecurity, another major barrier to educational access.
Food security as an integral part of the plan
“No child should go to bed hungry in the 21st century,” Tinubu declared, underscoring the importance of addressing hunger as a key component of his administration’s broader development agenda. Food security is seen as critical not just for the nation’s well-being but also for ensuring children’s ability to attend school and focus on their studies.
As reported by Punch, President Macron acknowledged Nigeria’s significant growth potential and the pivotal role of education in unlocking that potential. Reflecting on his own time in Nigeria, Macron emphasized the need for continued investment in education to harness the country’s full economic promise.
Bilateral ties and education reform
The meeting also underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria-France relations, with both leaders expressing their commitment to enhancing educational collaboration. Macron’s comments reinforced the view that a robust educational system is central to Nigeria’s future success.
With 18.3 million children currently out of school, Nigeria’s education crisis remains one of the most pressing challenges globally. The northern regions, including Kano, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Yobe, face the steepest barriers to education, with attendance rates in some areas falling below 40 percent.
This crisis is compounded by inadequate infrastructure, economic hardship, and ongoing security threats, including frequent attacks on schools and kidnappings, which further disrupt educational opportunities for Nigeria’s youth.
