Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has called for increased investment in Nigeria’s education sector. Obi expressed concern over the nation’s alarming figure of 20 million out-of-school children, describing it as unacceptable. He also criticized the N8,000 palliative payment allocated to each poor household to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal, deeming it grossly inadequate.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Class of 2023 at Pacesetters Schools in Abuja, Obi emphasized that every household in the country was vulnerable and feeling the impact of the subsidy removal. He argued that the N8,000 was insufficient to alleviate the hardships faced by citizens.
Obi highlighted the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) report, which revealed that over 20 million Nigerian school-age children are out of school. He emphasized that such a high number of out-of-school children impedes meaningful progress in the country and stressed the critical need for investment in education.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that education is essential for human development, health, and per capita income. He stated that a healthy society and poverty alleviation cannot be achieved without educated individuals. Obi further asserted that poverty is a significant factor contributing to the current security challenges in the country. He emphasized that education is crucial for lifting people out of poverty and reducing criminality.
Obi called for government investment in both public and private schools, stating that children in private schools are also Nigerian children. He emphasized that education should receive the highest budget allocation, with teachers celebrated for their critical role in shaping children’s character and providing quality education.
Obi criticized the Nigerian government for conferring national honor awards on individuals who have stolen from the country, rather than recognizing diligent and hard-working teachers who contribute to the nation’s development.
In his address, Obi encouraged graduating students to maintain good character, discipline, and truthfulness, stressing that education is key to their success. He urged them not to follow the path of corrupt individuals and emphasized the importance of networking and preserving their certificates for future recognition and celebration.
The Chairman of Pacesetters Schools, Abuja, Kenneth Imansuangbon, urged the graduating students to be good ambassadors of the school and contribute to positive change in Nigeria. The Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Muhammad Hameen Nuhu Sunusi, also expressed regret over the declining standards of education in the country due to inadequate investment in the sector.
