The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has expressed deep concern over the rising number of out-of-school children in the country, which now stands at 18.3 million, calling for urgent reforms to rescue the education sector.
In a statement on Sunday, NAS stressed that the figure is a national emergency and urged the government to increase funding, promote digital inclusion, and ensure greater accountability in the management of education resources.
According to NAS, the lack of access to quality education is worsening poverty, insecurity, and unemployment, while also undermining the nation’s prospects for sustainable development.
“No country can progress when millions of its children are denied access to education. Nigeria must make the bold choice to prioritise human capital by investing in schools, teachers, and technology,” the statement read.
The Academy emphasised the need to integrate digital learning tools across schools to bridge the gap between rural and urban students. It also urged the government to strengthen transparency in education spending to ensure funds directly benefit learners.
NAS called on policymakers to tackle the crisis with urgency, highlighting that expanding access to education will help reduce inequality, boost productivity, and secure Nigeria’s long-term stability.
“Education remains the foundation of national growth. Nigeria cannot afford to ignore this crisis any longer,” the Academy warned.
