Nigeria @66: Education Critical to Building Nigeria’s Future

The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has described education as critical to building Nigeria’s future, saying the sector remains central to human capital development, social mobility, innovation and sustainable national development.

Alausa, in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, said the occasion was an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, celebrate their shared identity and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.

The minister said the future of the country was closely tied to the quality of education provided for its children and young people, stressing the need for sustained efforts to strengthen the sector.

“Education remains fundamental to human capital development, social mobility, innovation and sustainable national development,” Alausa said.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support for the education sector and human capital development.

According to him, the administration, through the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), is advancing reforms and investments aimed at expanding access to education and strengthening educational institutions.

Alausa said the initiative was also supporting learners, improving teacher quality, promoting technical and vocational education, and equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to national development.

The minister acknowledged that much remained to be done in the education sector, particularly in strengthening foundational learning and improving teacher development.

He also identified the expansion of skills and technical education, promotion of research and innovation, and provision of safe and conducive learning environments as areas requiring continued attention.

Alausa said he remained committed to working with governments at all levels, teachers, parents, students, education stakeholders and development partners to build an education system that responds to the needs of a changing world.

He said such collaboration was necessary to make education more accessible and equitable while ensuring that innovation remained a major part of the country’s educational development.

The minister also addressed Nigerian youths, urging them to remain hopeful, disciplined and committed to excellence.

He said their knowledge, character, creativity and skills would be essential to building the Nigeria citizens desire.

“You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are important participants in shaping the Nigeria of today,” he said.

Alausa called on Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary to renew their commitment to unity, patriotism, service and shared responsibility.

He said the Nigeria that citizens desire could only be built through collective effort, with education serving as one of the strongest foundations for achieving the country’s aspirations.

The minister also paid tribute to the resilience and courage of Nigerians, saying those qualities continued to define the nation despite the challenges confronting it.

He extended his greetings to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora and wished the country continued peace, progress and prosperity.

Alausa concluded by wishing Nigerians a happy Independence Day and prayed for God’s continued blessings on the Federal Republic of Nigeria, its leaders and citizens.