ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) National Democratic Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized the Federal Government’s handling of the education sector, arguing that the failure of the policy separating junior and senior secondary schools reflects years of poor funding and weak leadership rather than flaws in the policy itself.
Obi made the remarks Friday on X, reacting to the government’s decision to phase out the policy after acknowledging it had failed to improve learning outcomes. He cited recent examination statistics showing that only 38.32 percent of candidates passed both English Language and Mathematics in the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, while about 32 percent passed the computer-based WASSCE in 2025.
“The Federal Government has finally admitted to its poor management of the education sector,” Obi wrote. “This admission is tragic because education is the most vital contributor to human capital development, which forms the foundation for growth and economic development of any society.”
Obi argued that Nigeria’s investment in education remains inadequate, pointing out that the sector received N3.52 trillion in the 2026 budget, representing only 6.17 percent of total expenditure far below UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 15 to 20 percent. He also lamented reports that Nigeria failed to sponsor students to international science competitions due to lack of funding, while spending heavily on conferences abroad.
Highlighting his record as governor of Anambra State, Obi said his administration transformed education through sustained investment in infrastructure and technology, including laptops, internet connectivity, and generators for schools. He noted that HP Africa recognized Anambra for procuring the largest number of laptops for school children of any subnational government in Africa.
The Federal Government’s decision to phase out the junior/senior secondary school policy followed data showing that more than 20 million pupils dropped out before reaching senior secondary level. Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa said the imbalance between about 80,000 public primary schools and only 15,000 junior secondary schools nationwide contributed to overcrowding and high dropout rates.
Obi urged the government to prioritize investment in education, healthcare, and job creation, warning that neglecting these sectors would have long-term consequences. “Failing to do the right things is equivalent to abusing society, and the society we abuse today will take its revenge on us and our children tomorrow,” he said.
