Out-of-School Children Crisis: FG and State Governors Join Forces in Bold New Strategy

The Federal Government, under the leadership of Education Minister Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has declared a state of emergency on the alarming out-of-school children crisis plaguing Nigeria. Speaking during the 2025 Budget Defence session with the joint Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund in Abuja, Alausa outlined an ambitious plan to confront the issue collaboratively.

Dr. Alausa disclosed that the Ministry of Education has engaged in extensive discussions with state governors and all 36 education commissioners, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to formulate actionable strategies.

"The number of out-of-school children is mind-boggling and disturbing. This is a national crisis that affects all geopolitical zones. We need a united front to tackle it before it consumes us,ÔÇØ he emphasized.

Alausa lamented the abandonment of over 100 Almajiri schools built during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, noting that only a few are operational.

"These schools were designed to address the needs of out-of-school children, yet most of them are left to rot. Reviving and funding these schools is critical to solving this crisis,ÔÇØ he stated.

He also stressed the need for increased funding to the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Commission, noting that the current allocation falls short of what is needed to achieve significant progress.

Beyond addressing the immediate crisis, Dr. Alausa highlighted the importance of long-term human capital development, emphasizing that education is the bedrock of any society.

"Nigeria's human capital index is among the lowest in the world. Without urgent investment in education, our society cannot survive or thrive,ÔÇØ he warned.

Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, underscored the critical role of education in national development.

"As lawmakers, we have a constitutional responsibility to ensure that resources allocated to this sector are strategically planned and utilized. The 2025 budget must address the gaps identified in 2024 while introducing innovative strategies for emerging challenges,ÔÇØ he said.

The Federal Government's commitment to resolving the out-of-school children crisis is a step in the right direction. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on effective implementation, increased funding, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

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