Honourable Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman OON, SAN, in a decisive move to reaffirm the administration’s unwavering dedication to the Education sector, addressed the Press and Students leadership at a pivotal meeting today. The Minister highlighted the Government’s resolute efforts to enhance the educational landscape for Nigerian students.
“Since President Bola Tinubu assumption of office, he has placed a premium on stability and quality within our Education system,” stated Professor Mamman. “No sector has garnered more attention than Education, especially issues impacting Students. The President is steadfast in his vision for a stable and disruption-free Educational environment.”
A significant reform includes the removal of Universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) and addressing recruitment challenges to provide greater autonomy to University administrators. This initiative is designed to empower Institutions, particularly tertiary ones, to deliver high-quality Education and equip Students with essential employable skills.
Additionally, to tackle financial barriers, President Tinubu introduced the National Education Loan Scheme, which has been operational for three months and enables Students nationwide to access crucial funding. This effort is complemented by an expanded scholarship program, offering nearly 45,000 scholarships to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder Students’ educational journeys.
In response to escalating security concerns, Nigeria Safety Centers have been established in Abuja and across various States, with all Educational institutions required to register. These Centers, bolstered by trained security forces, aim to promptly address threats and ensure a safer learning environment for Students.
Professor Mamman further explained that to demonstrate President Tinubu’s commitment to Youth, a new facility under the Ministry of Youth Development has been approved to support small-scale youth activities. This initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of young Nigerians beyond formal education.
According to the Minister, the Ministry of Education has spearheaded transformative reforms through the DOT policy, focusing on comprehensive data collection to better support schools, teachers, and infrastructure. As part of this initiative, 4 million young Nigerians have been reintegrated into the Educational system through various Ministries’ agencies. Additionally, the Out-of-School and Marginalized Children Commission, set to commence in September, will provide training to approximately 10,000 young individuals.
Professor Mamman emphasized the critical role of supporting teachers in these reforms. “We are committed to ensuring every teacher is supported, well-trained, and content. Starting in September, a new curriculum that integrates education with skills development will be introduced, ensuring that students acquire employable skills by the time they complete primary school.”
In response to the government’s initiatives, NANS President, Professor Comrade Lucky Omonefe, acknowledged the positive steps taken, including the student loan system and increased education funding. However, he also highlighted pressing issues such as food scarcity, high transportation costs, and the effective distribution of palliatives.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has decided to forego the nationwide protest scheduled for August 1. President Omonefe emphasized that despite existing challenges, the association is committed to lawful actions and will refrain from any disruptive activities.
In turn, Professor Mamman assured that the Ministry would address these concerns promptly and proposed regular biannual meetings to ensure open communication and continuous improvement. “Your feedback is invaluable, and together, we can enhance our Education system,” he affirmed.
With President Tinubu’s focused commitment and the Ministry’s proactive measures, Nigerian Students can anticipate a brighter future. The administration’s dedication to Education and youth welfare is paving the way for substantial improvements in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press & PR
