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The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Funsho Doherty, has promised to make education completely free in Lagos State if elected in the 2027 governorship election.
Doherty said his administration would ensure that no child is denied access to education because their parents cannot afford school-related expenses.
He made the promise on Sunday during the 2027 Lagos State governorship debate organised by Channels Television, TVC, Punch Newspapers, Vanguard Newspapers and The Cable.
The NDC candidate said his education policy would go beyond the existing arrangement of nominally free education, which he argued still requires parents to pay certain fees, including examination charges.
According to him, his administration would equip young people with education and relevant skills to improve their opportunities and quality of life.
He specifically promised to eliminate examination fees and other charges that could prevent children from completing their education.
“So, our policies are aimed at capacitating the people, giving them skills, ensuring that there is no child born in Lagos who does not get an education because their parents cannot afford it.
“We have said we will make education truly free, not nominally free. Truly free, so people will not pay exam fees, they will not be asked to come and pay taxes at a point when they have to write their exams,” Doherty said.
Beyond tuition and examination costs, the governorship candidate also promised to introduce a feeding programme for pupils in public schools.
He said the initiative would provide children with one affordable meal every day as part of efforts to improve their welfare and support access to education.
Doherty’s promises form part of his proposed education and human development agenda ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship election.
