The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has raised concerns about the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria and has pledged to intensify efforts to improve access to quality basic education across the country.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), this was disclosed by UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, during the opening session of a two-day management retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom. The retreat is themed “Repositioning UBEC for Sustainable Basic Education Delivery in Nigeria.”
State-Level Delays in Funding Access Cited as Key Barrier
Garba pointed out that delays by state governments in accessing grant funds allocated for education infrastructure and teacher development have continued to affect progress in the sector.
“States have, over the years, experienced delays in accessing grant funds disbursed at the national level,” she said.
“This retreat is essential to address those discrepancies and other systemic challenges confronting basic education in the country.”
She noted that while enrolment figures had increased in some areas, access to quality basic education remained a major issue requiring urgent action.
Planning to Align with Federal Education Goals
The retreat, which involves internal planning among UBEC staff, is intended to help the commission align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“Our goal is to ensure UBEC is repositioned to significantly contribute to delivering universal basic education to every Nigerian child, regardless of background or geographical location,” Garba said.
She acknowledged progress made by UBEC in expanding and supporting the basic education system. However, she stressed the need for further improvements in infrastructure and the quality of teaching in public schools.
Education Data Shows Mixed Results
Garba presented data showing limited growth in early childhood enrolment for children aged three to five between 2018 and 2022. She also highlighted the impact of declining teacher-student ratios on classroom delivery and learning outcomes.
“Over the years, Nigeria has experienced mixed trends in key education indicators, reflecting both progress and persistent challenges,” she said.
The Executive Secretary stated that despite UBEC’s efforts, more attention is needed to improve student-to-classroom ratios and access to learning environments, particularly in underserved areas.
Targeting Root Causes of Out-of-School Challenge
Garba explained that most out-of-school children in Nigeria come from rural and economically disadvantaged communities. She emphasised that poverty and inequality remain key drivers of the problem.
She pointed to collaborative efforts with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs), which have led to the construction of new schools and the renovation of classrooms. However, she admitted that gaps persist in providing adequate learning infrastructure and reaching every eligible child.
Garba called for increased advocacy, greater coordination between government agencies, and stronger partnerships to address the root causes of limited access to basic education.
