By Comfort Olayinka
The Federal Government has joined forces with state Governors to address the alarming issue of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Minister of Education, Dr. Moruf Olatunji Alausa, made this announcement at the 2025 Budget Defence session of the joint Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TetFund and Education in Abuja.
Alausa emphasized that the ministry has met with state governors and commissioners for education to find lasting solutions to the problem.
The minister described the number of out-of-school children as “mind-boggling and disturbing,” noting that it is a nationwide issue that requires collective action. He stressed the need for collaboration with governors, commissioners, and other stakeholders to tackle this challenge.
Alausa also revealed that the ministry has held meetings with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to discuss strategies for addressing the issue.
Alausa expressed concern over the abandoned Almajiri Schools built during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. He noted that only a few of the over 100 schools built for out-of-school children are operational, and called for efforts to revive them.
The minister also emphasized the need for increased funding for the Almajiri and out-of-School Commission.
The Minister of Education further emphasized the importance of human capital development in boosting the education sector.
He noted that education is crucial for societal development, citing Nigeria’s low human capital index. Alausa reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians develop their potential, stressing that education is essential for the country’s survival.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Sen. Muntari Dandutse, echoed Alausa’s sentiments, highlighting the critical role of education in national development.
Dandutse emphasized the need for strategic planning and utilization of resources allocated to the education sector.
The proposed 2025 budget is expected to demonstrate a clear vision for addressing gaps identified in the 2024 Appropriation.
Dandutse noted that the budget should introduce innovative strategies to tackle emerging challenges in the education sector.
As the Federal Government and state governors collaborate to address the issue of out-of-school children, Nigerians await the implementation of effective solutions to this pressing problem.
With education being a critical sector for national development, the government’s efforts to boost the education sector are being closely watched.
