In a resounding call for inclusive and equitable education in Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has emphasized that the future of girls’ education lies in the classroom. She made this assertion during the public presentation of a report on the status of girls’ education financing in Nigeria, focusing on ten pilot states.
Professor Suwaiba stated that ensuring access to quality education for the girl-child is a national imperative and a strategic investment in nation-building. “To empower girls is to build a nation. We cannot afford to leave them behind,” she declared. She reiterated that education remains the cornerstone of national development and called for appropriate data-driven decisions to shape impactful policies and produce employable graduates.
Highlighting the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment, the Minister noted that their goal is to leverage accurate data on school populations to guide effective planning, especially in ensuring access for vulnerable groups. “Education is a catalyst for socio-economic growth,” she said, adding that inclusive education must be adequately financed and equitably distributed.
As part of the event, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad officially unveiled two major reports:
1. “An Analysis of State-Level Financing of Girls’ Education in Ten States”
2. “Nigeria: State of Girls’ Education in Ten States – An Analytical Review.”
These reports aim to provide a clearer picture of current financing practices, performance challenges, and policy gaps, while recommending effective channels for improving girls’ education.
In a virtual address, Ms. Nabila Aguele, the Chief Executive of the Malala Fund Nigeria, applauded the initiative. She emphasized the importance of credible and sustained financing for girls’ education and called on all stakeholders to invest in this critical area. “Investing in girls’ education is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic move that will leave a lasting mark on national development,” she said.
The event featured detailed presentations on state-level performance assessments and financing for girls’ education. It also hosted a panel discussion aimed at interrogating the findings, identifying practical strategies, and encouraging cross-learning among the ten pilot states.
Aligning with the “Renewed Hope Education Roadmap,” this initiative is seen as a significant step forward in Nigeria’s collective efforts to strengthen girls’ education.
A Reconnection in Akwa Ibom – Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh
In a heartwarming twist, Professor Suwaiba’s event also brought about a nostalgic reunion. A former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who once served in Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State recounted his surprise meeting with Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, now the Honourable Commissioner of Education in the state.
“I greeted him in Ibibio, saying ‘Amesiere, Abadie, Nkuk yiba, Ememe,’ and he smiled warmly and said, ‘You tried!’” the attendee narrated. Prof. Umoh, a renowned academic and professor of military history, is described as energetic, versatile, and deeply connected to his roots. The visitor fondly recalled his service year in Akwa Ibom, referring to the state as “the Land of Promise,” and jokingly as “the Land of Corpers,” where they enjoyed traditional delicacies like Editan and Afang soups.
The chance encounter symbolized the power of education and cultural connection, showing how paths cross again in the most meaningful of ways.
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