Nigeria’s education system is at a crossroads, facing systemic challenges that, if left unaddressed, will have long-term repercussions on the nation’s growth. From the quality of teacher training to the dire state of teacher remuneration and the lack of reliable data, urgent reforms are needed to transform the sector into a driver of sustainable development.
At the heart of the problem is the state of teacher training institutes. These institutions, meant to be the backbone of our education system, are underfunded and underperforming. Without significant investment in training programmes, the pool of qualified teachers will continue to shrink. This has already affected not just mainstream education but vocational training as well—how can vocational students excel if there are no qualified instructors to guide them?
Compounding the issue is the paltry salaries paid to teachers. Many struggle to survive in an economy plagued by inflation and high living costs. Teaching, once considered a noble profession, is now seen as a last resort due to poor compensation. This has led to low morale and a brain drain as educators seek opportunities in other professions or abroad. The government must prioritize competitive wages and welfare packages to attract and retain talent in the teaching profession.
Another pressing issue is the lack of accurate, real-time data within the education sector. Decision-making based on outdated or inaccurate statistics from external agencies like UNESCO or UNICEF undermines efforts to create effective policies. Nigeria needs its own robust, real-time data collection and analysis system to track enrollment, teacher availability, resource allocation, and student outcomes. Without this, the sector will continue to operate in the dark, with poorly targeted interventions.
The current Minister of Education has a critical role to play. This position is not merely administrative but requires vision, strategy, and decisive action. Addressing these core issues—teacher training, remuneration, and data systems—must be a priority. The Minister must lead the charge in securing increased funding, implementing reforms, and collaborating with stakeholders to create a system that works for everyone.
Nigeria has the largest population in Africa, with over 200 million people, half of whom are under 18. Despite this, the education system struggles to meet the needs of its population. With over 10 million children out of school—the highest number in the world—basic education is in crisis. Public schools are overcrowded, poorly equipped, and underfunded, while private schools are often unaffordable for the majority.
Tertiary institutions face their own challenges, including frequent strikes, underfunding, and limited capacity, leaving many qualified students unable to gain admission. Vocational education, meant to provide practical skills for employment, suffers from neglect and lacks qualified instructors.
Fixing Nigeria’s education system is not optional—it is imperative. The government must recognize that education is the cornerstone of economic growth and national development. Without investing in quality teachers, fair wages, and a reliable data system, the country risks perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.
The time for talk is over. The Minister of Education must act decisively to address these critical issues. Nigeria’s future depends on it.
