Poor Educational Infrastructure in 2024
Nigeria’s education sector faced significant infrastructure deficits in 2024, despite a budget allocation of N1.79 trillion. Reports revealed that over 10 million students studied in overcrowded classrooms, with a shortage of approximately 230,000 classrooms nationwide. UNESCO’s data indicated that Nigeria had one of the highest rates of out-of-school children, with nearly 20% of global cases. Furthermore, over 65% of public schools lacked basic facilities such as clean water, electricity, and functional toilets, hampering effective learning.
Significant Boost for Education Funding
To address these challenges, the Federal Government has earmarked N827 billion for education infrastructure in the 2025 budget. President Bola Tinubu emphasized the government’s commitment to improving access and quality in education during the presentation of the N49.7 trillion budget to the National Assembly. The 2025 allocation aims to build on previous investments and address the gaps identified in 2024.
Achievements in 2024 Education Investment
In 2024, the government rehabilitated over 3,000 classrooms and constructed hostels in federal institutions, thanks to the N1.79 trillion budget. The Nigeria Education Loan Fund also provided N34 billion in loans to over 300,000 tertiary students, easing financial barriers to higher education. However, stakeholders noted that the progress achieved did not adequately meet the scale of the sector’s needs, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
Focus on Universal Basic Education in 2025
The 2025 budget includes provisions for the Universal Basic Education (UBE) program, with N500 billion allocated to school renovations, teacher training, and digital resources. Additionally, the establishment of nine new higher institutions aims to expand access to quality education. These measures are expected to address the high rate of out-of-school children and improve literacy levels across the country.
Education Challenges and Future Plans
Despite increased funding, challenges such as inadequate classrooms, outdated materials, and teacher shortages persist. The government’s 2025 allocation seeks to tackle these issues comprehensively, ensuring equitable access to quality education for all. Stakeholders have called for enhanced transparency and accountability in the use of funds to ensure impactful results.
Commitment to Education Reform
The Federal Government reaffirmed its dedication to transforming Nigeria’s education system, emphasizing accountability and collaboration with state governments and private stakeholders. President Tinubu stressed that the investments in 2025 are part of broader reforms to make Nigeria’s education globally competitive and sustainable.
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