Nigeria Cannot Build Literacy While Schools Remain Under Threat

Nigeria Cannot Build Literacy While Schools Remain Under Threat – Akume
The SGF stressed the need for stronger government policies that guarantee safe and violence-free learning environments for children
Akume called on religious and traditional leaders to take active roles in promoting peace ahead of the 2027 general elections

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has raised concerns over the growing insecurity affecting schools across Nigeria, warning that the continued closure of learning institutions could have serious consequences for the country’s future, Eko Hot Blog reports.

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Speaking in Abuja during the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council, Akume said attacks on schools and the shutdown of educational facilities in unsafe areas are worsening the nation’s education challenges and threatening long-term stability.

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The meeting, themed “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion,” focused on the role of education, faith, and community leadership in promoting peace and unity across the country.

According to a statement issued by his media aide, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF stressed the need for stronger government policies that guarantee safe and violence-free learning environments for children.

Nigeria Cannot Build Literacy While Schools Remain Under Threat - Akume — SGF, Sen. George Akume

He noted that education cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.

“A child cannot learn fraternity in fear; a nation cannot preach literacy while schools are under threat,” Akume stated.

The SGF explained that although religious studies already form part of the school curriculum, attention should now shift toward improving teaching quality, strengthening learning materials, and promoting values that encourage tolerance, responsible citizenship, and peaceful coexistence.

Akume also called on religious and traditional leaders to take active roles in promoting peace ahead of the 2027 general elections. He urged them to help counter misinformation, stereotypes, and divisions that often fuel violence in communities.

He warned against the use of religion or identity for political and economic interests, saying such actions frequently lead to unrest and deepen social tensions.

The SGF further emphasised the importance of combining religious literacy with media and information literacy to tackle hate speech and the spread of false information, noting that Nigeria is already working with UNESCO on responsible information-sharing initiatives.

Akume expressed optimism that discussions at the council meeting would produce practical solutions to strengthen national unity and peace, while encouraging stakeholders to prioritise education as a key tool for development and social stability.