Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has described education as a critical foundation for Nigeria’s human capital development and national progress, pledging continued efforts to strengthen the country’s education system.
Alausa stated this in his Independence Day message to Nigerians as the country marks its 66th anniversary, saying the future of Nigeria was closely linked to the quality of education provided for its children and young people.
He said education remained fundamental to human capital development, social mobility, innovation and sustainable national development.
The minister also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support for the education sector and human capital development.
According to him, the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda and through the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), is advancing reforms and investments designed to expand access to education, strengthen institutions, support learners and improve teacher quality.
He added that the initiatives also seek to promote technical and vocational education while equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to national development.
Alausa acknowledged that significant challenges remain in the education sector, stressing the need to strengthen foundational learning, improve teacher development, expand technical and skills education, promote research and innovation, and provide safe and conducive learning environments.
“I remain committed to working with governments at all levels, teachers, parents, students, education stakeholders and development partners to build an education system that is accessible, equitable, innovative and responsive to the needs of a changing world,” he said.
The minister urged young Nigerians to remain hopeful, disciplined and committed to excellence, stressing that their knowledge, character, creativity and skills were essential to shaping the country’s future.
“You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are important participants in shaping the Nigeria of today,” Alausa said.
He called on Nigerians to uphold unity, patriotism, service and a shared sense of responsibility, noting that building the country remained a collective responsibility.
Alausa also saluted Nigerians for what he described as the courage and resilience that continue to define the nation, wishing citizens at home and in the diaspora a happy Independence Day.
“Education remains one of the strongest foundations” for achieving the Nigeria Nigerians desire, he said.
