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Calls for proper identification of brilliant students
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Engineer Anselm Ijebor, Chairman of the recently concluded National Educational Award Programme (NEAP), has emphasised that no government can independently drive its education sector without collaborating with critical stakeholders.
Speaking during an interview with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Engr. Ijebor stressed that achieving significant progress in Nigeria’s educational development requires the involvement of experienced professionals in the field.
“The country, Nigeria, has failed to achieve a remarkable breakthrough in our educational sector because those knowledgeable enough to propel the sector were not given the opportunity to bring their expertise to bear,” he stated.
Ijebor argued that mediocrity in leadership positions within the education sector has hindered progress, urging the government to allow seasoned professionals to take charge. He further called for the mobilisation of citizens, organised private sector entities, and critical stakeholders to accelerate academic excellence and contribute to national development.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. The importance of education to a nation cannot be overemphasised. In most parts of the world, education is regarded as a fundamental human right. Education is one of the basic criteria for measuring the growth and development of any nation,” he said.
Highlighting the challenges facing Nigeria’s education system, Engr. Ijebor lamented the frequent strikes in tertiary institutions, which have disrupted academic calendars and negatively affected students.
“Since the return to civil leadership in 1999, the country has experienced more than 10 strike actions in tertiary institutions. This has drastically affected the education of students in Nigeria,” he noted.
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Despite these challenges, Ijebor acknowledged improvements in the sector under the current administration, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to address out-of-school children and improve access to quality education.
“The Students Loan Scheme launched by President Tinubu is a bold and revolutionary step to ensure that every eligible child has access to quality higher education, regardless of their circumstances. This initiative is historic and will provide opportunities for children who might otherwise be deprived of tertiary education,” he said.
He, however, stressed that more work is needed to ensure these initiatives have lasting impacts. “Although progress has been made, much more is required to make the changes sustainable,” Ijebor added.
Speaking on the role of NEAP, Engr. Ijebor described the programme as a pivotal initiative to identify and reward brilliant students with high academic achievements at the Senior Secondary School Examination level through scholarships.
“This initiative is not only a right step in the right direction but also a move to mobilise citizens and the private sector to celebrate academic excellence and contribute to Nigeria’s educational development,” he explained.
Ijebor concluded by calling on President Tinubu to delegate the responsibility of managing the education sector to capable individuals with the necessary skills and determination to deliver results.
“The mandate in the education sector requires precision, like that of a pilot. Delegating this to the right team is essential for driving meaningful change,” he said.
The NEAP initiative, he added, remains committed to promoting academic excellence and driving the nation’s educational progress.
