The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s values of democracy, human rights, and social progress, emphasizing the transformative role of education in national and global development. Speaking at the Commonwealth Day commemoration held at the Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja, Dr. Alausa highlighted the theme for 2025, “Together We Thrive”, as a call to action for collective advancement in education.
Dr. Alausa underscored the benefits Nigeria enjoys as a Commonwealth member, including access to a global network of trade partners, fully funded and shared Commonwealth scholarships for Nigerian students, and leadership opportunities through the Commonwealth Youth Council. He stressed that young people, particularly those aged 15-29, must harness these opportunities to excel in politics, entrepreneurship, and other human endeavors.
In a further demonstration of his commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s future leaders, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, alongside the Honourable Minister of State, Professor Suwaiba’ Said Ahmad, presented gifts to outstanding students who excelled in the Commonwealth competitions for youth and adolescents. This gesture aims to motivate and recognize the exceptional achievements of Nigeria’s young talents, reinforcing the importance of academic excellence and leadership in shaping a prosperous future.
The Minister also reiterated Nigeria’s collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) to drive innovation in Open Distance Learning, blended education models, and technical and vocational training. He noted that COL is actively supporting initiatives to address Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis, particularly in vulnerable states.
“Thriving together requires a bold vision and the willingness to challenge the status quo,” Dr. Alausa stated. He highlighted digitalization and digitization as essential tools for addressing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic inequalities. He emphasized that education remains the most powerful tool for equipping citizens with the skills and mindset necessary for sustainable development and global competitiveness.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Sarah Anyanwu of the University of Abuja called for increased investment in education, stressing that education is the foundation of economic development. She urged stakeholders to embrace collaboration to reshape Nigeria’s educational landscape, stating, “Education is the most important resource for economic growth, fostering prosperous, equitable, and resilient societies.”
The commemoration concluded with a renewed commitment from the Ministry and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and drive impactful reforms in the education sector.
Signed
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press & PR
11/3/25
