- FG Restates Youth-Focused Education Agenda at 2026 International Day of Education
- Call for Stakeholder Collaboration
- Says Education Reforms Anchored on Renewed Hope Agenda
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive, equitable and future-ready education system, placing Nigerian youths at the centre of efforts to transform learning and national development.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, made this known on Thursday in Abuja during the 2026 International Day of Education celebration, themed “The Power of Youth in Co-creating Education.”
EDITOR’S PICK
- FRS Redeploys Senior Officers Nationwide to Strengthen Operations
- 2026 BECE Registration Begins as Lagos Moves Process Online
- Lagos Lawmakers Justify Demolition of Illegal Structures in Makoko, Oworonsoki
Alausa described education as the foundation of civilisation, peace and sustainable development, while acknowledging persistent challenges confronting the sector, including learning poverty, access gaps, skills mismatches and gender disparities.
The minister said ongoing reforms in the education sector are firmly rooted in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which positions education as a catalyst for economic growth, national renewal and social transformation.
According to him, the government has increased funding for education through higher budgetary allocations, innovative non-budgetary financing mechanisms and stronger partnerships with international development organisations.
“These resources are enabling us to implement bold, systemic reforms that will reposition education to meet present and future needs,” Alausa said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic advantage, the minister noted that with more than half of the population under 30 years old, the country’s greatest asset lies in its youth.
He explained that the Ministry of Education is shifting away from traditional top-down education models towards a participatory system that empowers learners as co-creators through innovation hubs, digital fluency, feedback mechanisms and industry-relevant skills.
“Our goal is not just to educate young people, but to empower them to shape the education system itself,” he said.
Alausa outlined key interventions under the Education Transformation Roadmap, including curriculum rationalisation to prioritise critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving; accelerated digital learning through smart platforms and national education data systems; and strengthened teacher capacity for modern pedagogy and artificial intelligence.
He added that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been repositioned as a major driver of employment, entrepreneurship and industrial growth, with learners now deployed across accredited centres nationwide.
The minister said the government has recorded measurable progress in access and inclusion, citing the integration of thousands of children into formal and non-formal education, targeted interventions for out-of-school and Almajiri children, and expanded girl-child education through initiatives such as AGILE and the LUMINAH 2030 programme.
He also disclosed that a National Anti-Bullying Policy has been introduced to ensure safe, inclusive and learner-friendly environments across schools.
According to Alausa, the ministry has expanded enrolment in medical, STEMM and nursing education, refocused scholarship opportunities, introduced student venture capital and staff support funding, and strengthened quality assurance across basic, secondary and tertiary institutions.
He noted that transparency in education data and digital learning delivery has also been significantly improved.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), the minister called on parents, communities, civil society organisations, the private sector and the media to deepen collaboration with government.
He urged stakeholders to support the establishment of innovation hubs, laboratories and skills centres that will prepare Nigerian youths for a rapidly evolving global economy.
“By empowering our youth to co-create education, we are not merely reforming classrooms; we are safeguarding Nigeria’s future, strengthening national unity and unlocking the full potential of the next generation,” he said.
Alausa commended Nigerian teachers for their resilience and dedication, encouraging students to remain active in shaping education policy through innovation and engagement.
He concluded by reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to lifelong learning opportunities for all Nigerians.
FURTHER READING
- Trump Pushes for Greenland Deal Amid EU Tensions
- Anthony Joshua Crash Driver’s Trial Adjourned to February 25
- Firdaus Prayers Held in Honour of Erelu Aminat Dosunmu
Click here to watch video of the week
