The Federal Government of Nigeria has stepped up efforts to attract fresh private and global investment into the education sector, positioning reform as a key driver of productivity, innovation and inclusive growth.
Speaking at a high-level CEO Breakfast Roundtable in Lagos, Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the push aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at transforming Nigeria’s human capital base.
The meeting, held under the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative, brought together top players across industries to deepen collaboration and unlock innovative financing for sustainable reform.
Alausa outlined key progress areas, including policy reforms, digitisation and strengthened data systems, but admitted that major hurdles persist—particularly the crisis of out-of-school children, widespread learning poverty and widening skills gaps.
He disclosed that targeted interventions are already underway, including expansion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), improved teacher capacity, integration of out-of-school children into formal learning, and scaling of digital infrastructure nationwide.
Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmad, described the roundtable as a critical step towards building stronger partnerships capable of delivering lasting impact.
Global stakeholders reaffirmed their backing, with the Global Partnership for Education and the United Kingdom pledging continued support, while Italy announced plans to host the 5th GPE Replenishment Conference in Rome.
In a major boost, the Airtel Africa Foundation committed to supporting digital learning and expanding connectivity across schools.
Stakeholders also endorsed new financing models alongside the Basic Education Investment Case, with a Public-Private Education Technical Working Group set up to drive implementation, ensure accountability and align investments.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to building a resilient education system through strategic partnerships, as it seeks to improve learning outcomes and prepare Nigeria’s workforce for a rapidly evolving global economy.
