On Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed a motion urging the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to ensure that every Nigerian child can access free and compulsory education.
The motion, introduced by Rep. Obi Aguocha (LP-Abia), aligns with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and aims to tackle the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Aguocha stated that this motion is supported by key legislations, including the Child’s Rights Act, 2003, and the Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act, 2004, both of which guarantee every child’s right to free education up to Junior Secondary School.
He further noted that the federal government must allocate 2% of its Consolidated Revenue Fund annually to the Universal Basic Education Fund (UBEF), while states are expected to match this contribution.
The lawmaker expressed concern over the increasing number of children out of school, which he attributed to factors such as insufficient funding, poor distribution of resources, low-quality teaching, and socio-cultural barriers like child labour, early marriage, and gender bias. He also raised alarm over the growing number of children found begging or hawking on the streets.
According to a UNICEF report from September 2024, Nigeria has 18.3 million out-of-school children, one of the highest figures globally.
The crisis has worsened in the northeastern region due to insurgency, which has led to school closures, the abduction of students, and the destruction of educational facilities by terrorist groups.
The House decided to invite UBEC officials to provide a report on the implementation of the education scheme.
Deputy Speaker Rep. Benjamin Kalu tasked the Committee on Basic Education and Services with ensuring that the education policies are fully implemented across the country.
