By Kabiru Haruna (AD Press, FME)
In a bold push for inclusive and equitable education across Nigeria, the Honorable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing girls’ education through targeted financing and strategic planning.
Speaking at the official launch of two landmark reports on the status of girls’ education in ten pilot states, Professor Suwaiba declared that the classroom remains the most powerful tool for shaping the nation’s future. “The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of every child in a classroom especially the girl-child, who for too long has been marginalized,” she said.
Professor Suwaiba emphasized that empowering girls through education is not only a moral responsibility but also a vital national investment. “To educate a girl is to build a nation. We must ensure that no girl is left behind,” she stressed, calling for data-driven policies that can close gaps and drive effective change in the education sector.
The Federal Ministry of Education, she added, is determined to use accurate, real-time data to guide its planning processes particularly in improving access for vulnerable and underserved populations. “Education is the foundation for socio-economic transformation. If we want inclusive development, we must finance inclusive education,” she said.
At the heart of the event was the official release of two in-depth publications:
- “An Analysis of State-Level Financing of Girls’ Education in Ten States”
- “Nigeria: State of Girls’ Education in Ten States An Analytical Review”
These reports provide critical insights into current financing mechanisms, highlight existing policy and performance gaps, and recommend practical, scalable strategies for improving access and quality in girls’ education.
In a virtual goodwill message, Ms. Nabila Aguele, Chief Executive of the Malala Fund Nigeria, praised the Ministry’s efforts. She emphasized the urgent need for credible, sustained, and gender-responsive financing. “Investing in girls’ education is not just a social good—it is a strategic pathway to sustainable national development,” she noted.
The event also featured a panel discussion with education stakeholders, focusing on best practices, cross-state learning, and pragmatic solutions tailored to the unique challenges in each of the ten pilot states.
This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Education Roadmap, marking a significant milestone in the government’s broader effort to revitalize the education sector and promote gender equality.
An Unexpected Reunion in Akwa Ibom: A Tale of Service, Culture, and Connection
Amid the formal proceedings, the event sparked a heartfelt moment of reconnection. A former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who once served in Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State unexpectedly reunited with Professor Ubong Essien Umoh now the Honorable Commissioner of Education in Akwa Ibom.
Sharing the moment, the attendee recounted greeting the Commissioner in Ibibio: “Amesiere, Abadie, Nkuk yiba, Ememe,” to which Professor Umoh smiled and replied, “You tried!” The nostalgic exchange reflected mutual respect and deep cultural appreciation.
Described as a dynamic academic and military historian, Professor Umoh’s presence added a personal touch to the event. The former NYSC member fondly remembered Akwa Ibom as “The Land of Promise” and jokingly as “The Land of Corpers,” where he enjoyed local dishes like Editan and Afang soup.
This unexpected encounter highlighted the long-lasting bonds forged through education and service, illustrating how lives once intertwined can cross paths again this time, in service of a greater cause.
