Nigeria needs urgent education reforms —Speaker Abbas

Nigeria needs urgent education reforms —Speaker Abbas 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on Saturday called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s education sector, stressing that the growing youth population must be educated and empowered.

Speaker Abbas made the statement at the 14th Convocation Ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja, where he was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree (Honoris Causa).

The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

While addressing the challenges facing educational institutions, the Speaker emphasized that addressing them is of utmost importance.

He expressed the 10th House’s commitment to tackling these issues legislatively.

The Speaker stated: “Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where education reform is both necessary and urgent. Our country’s young population is full of potential, and we must equip them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

“As the Speaker and a lawmaker, I have prioritized collaborating with my colleagues in the National Assembly to promote reforms in our education sector—particularly in the university system. Our universities face various challenges, including inadequate funding and infrastructure, a shortage of qualified personnel, curricular gaps, and the need for increased research and innovation.”

“The 10th House of Representatives is dedicated to enhancing education in Nigeria through comprehensive legislative efforts, including amending existing laws to advance technical and vocational education, recognizing that essential skills aren’t solely acquired in traditional universities.”

Speaker Abbas noted that this commitment has led to proposals for new institutions, such as polytechnics and entrepreneurship colleges, to bridge the gap between education and employment. “We also prioritize higher education by supporting initiatives like the National Students Loan Scheme, ensuring financial accessibility for deserving students,” he added.

The Speaker pointed out that, recognizing the importance of funding, the House aims to increase investment in university infrastructure and human capital development.

“Education reform involves improving lecturer welfare, preventing strikes that disrupt academic calendars, and modernizing curricula to align with contemporary demands. As legislators, we will collaborate with the executive branch and stakeholders to uphold President Tinubu’s education agenda, ensuring that every Nigerian willing to learn is given the opportunity to succeed. This is a responsibility I take to heart as both a product of the educational system and a steward of its future.”

The Speaker thanked the Chancellor of NOUN, Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II; the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters; members of the Governing Council and Senate; as well as the faculty and staff of NOUN for honoring him. He also acknowledged AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi, who delivered the convocation lecture on Friday.

“By awarding me the Honorary Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) (Honoris Causa) and the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (LHD) to Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, you have recognized our individual contributions,” he said, adding: “This moment is especially poignant for me, given my dual identity as an academic and a public servant.”

While noting that he serves as the Speaker of the House, he remarked, “I remain an academic at heart.”

He explained that his involvement in the academic convocation reminded him of the connection between public service and academia. “Both pursuits are driven by a desire to improve society: one through policy and governance, the other through knowledge,” he said.

Speaker Abbas emphasized: “In my legislative role, I have found my scholarly background to be an asset. It has guided me in championing evidence-based policymaking and appreciating the transformative power of education.”

“As Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, I bear the responsibility of steering lawmaking toward the improvement of our country, Nigeria. I have also kept one foot in the classroom, so to speak, by delivering convocation lectures and engaging with universities.”