Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, has expressed concern over the recent WAEC report showing a 7.69% decline in WASSCE performance in Nigeria.
He emphasized that the decline is a highlight on the neglect of critical areas like education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
Obi noted that only 72.12% of candidates achieved credits in five subjects, including English and Mathematics, compared to 79.81% the previoys year, indicating a need for urgent action.
He pointed out that despite a claimed literacy rate of over 50%, Nigeria ranks 187th globally, reflecting a lack of commitment to education.
Obi criticized the poor investment in education, citing the allocation of N330.3 billion for the entire education sector, including UBEC, as inadequate for a country with over 105,000 schools.
He contrasted it to his own experience in Anambra State when he Governor fir 8years, where aggressive investment in education led to significant transformation and progress.
Obi celebrated the contributions of schools, management, staff, and teachers in Anambra State to educational growth and development, quoting Nelson Mandela’s words, “Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.” He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing education in a New Nigeria.”