Connect with us

Opinion

Nigeria’s Brain Drain Conundrum: A Call To Action

Published

on

David Osadolor is the President, Nigerian Young Professionals’ Forum (NYPF)

By David Osadolor

As we deal with the multiplex of our minds and call to heart the things that should be in the most definite ways, it is indeed beyond the questions of hope and endeavors. People are losing faith in the country and their attitudes are showing that. When an institution can no longer provide the basic things needed by its citizens, people lose faith. It is therefore okay in an absolute manner to understand that when dealing with our temperamental stars, habits, and attitudinal behavioral conducts would always hold the pillars of societal balance in relative terms. People are battered, tattered, and torn, both from dealings within their societal circles and the cycle of the national polity, and there is just no way to keep the magic light and lead the way if the habits formed from the system are not reformed to lead a successful life.
Beyond this, at the other side of this long table will be questions; aching hearts and searching eyes, and the solemn ideas of what exactly they are trying to be or where they can get to lead a better life.  Amid these pains are people; hearts, and heads, and the numbers are constantly increasing as more questions are popping up from the distant shadows like silhouettes coming to life face to face with the cold realities of the entirely aching nation with no one willing to pick up the pieces. So here are the biggest catches; beyond the questions are questioners – people who have come along with a cumulative experience, adversity from childhood or something picked at adulthood. Most times, these people are often with value-laden and hurt-laden struggles which have shaped their current habits and the necessities of letting go are not so visible. This is the system. This has nothing to do with motivation or willpower, but the loss of faith in the institution and the necessity to find a better place to live and thrive.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of the continent’s largest economies, is often lauded for its abundant natural resources and rich cultural heritage. However, beneath this veneer lies a deeply troubling phenomenon – brain drain. The term “brain drain” refers to the emigration of highly skilled and educated individuals from one country to another in search of better opportunities. In Nigeria, this trend has reached alarming proportions, with thousands of professionals, particularly in the medical, academic, and technological sectors, leaving the country annually. This exodus has far-reaching consequences, not only for Nigeria’s economic development but also for its social stability and future growth prospects.
Let us remember therefore that in the past, our ancestors were forcibly taken to foreign lands in vast numbers, leaving behind only a few men, women, and children. This mass displacement, known as the trans-Atlantic slave trade, devastated our communities and stalled development, leaving our land barren. Many African scholars, such as Walter Rodney in his seminal work ‘How Europe Underdeveloped Africa’ (1972), argue that the slave trade significantly hindered the development of the continent, which was rich in both human and natural resources.
Unlike the forced migration of the past, this modern exodus is voluntary, driven by the search for better opportunities outside the shore of Nigeria. This migration manifests in two primary ways. First, there is the Brain Drain, where educated Nigerians leave the country to practice their skills elsewhere due to the lack of favourable conditions at home. Second, there is the broader migration of individuals seeking greener pastures, even when they may not have significant contributions to offer in their destination countries.
 
The lack of opportunities for many talented Nigerians has led to a significant diaspora across Europe and America. The country’s failure to provide an environment where its citizens can fully realise their potential has exacerbated the challenges of brain drain and migration, contributing to Nigeria’s ongoing development struggles. Our universities have suffered from poor government policies, leading to a decline in quality and prestige. Studying abroad, even in neighbouring countries like Ghana and Benin Republic, has become a status symbol. In the medical field, a significant number of Nigerian doctors and nurses now practice in the United Kingdom, while our political leaders, unable or unwilling to fix the healthcare system at home, seek medical treatment abroad.
As the country struggles to address its myriad challenges, the loss of its brightest minds creates a conundrum – a complex and persistent problem that seems almost impossible to solve.
 
The Root Causes of Brain Drain in Nigeria
One of the primary drivers of brain drain in Nigeria is the country’s deteriorating economic conditions. Despite being one of the largest oil producers in the world, Nigeria has been unable to translate its natural wealth into broad-based prosperity. High unemployment rates, inflation, and a volatile currency have created an environment where many professionals see no viable future for themselves and their families. For instance, a 2020 report by the World Bank indicated that nearly 40 per cent of Nigeria’s population lived below the poverty line, and this figure has likely worsened due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In such an environment, the allure of higher-paying jobs, better living conditions, and more stable economies abroad is irresistible.
A second major cause of brain drain is the inadequate state of infrastructure and public services in Nigeria. Healthcare, education, and power supply are critical sectors that have suffered from years of neglect, under-funding, and corruption. The healthcare sector, for example, is in a state of crisis, with many hospitals lacking basic equipment and supplies. This has prompted a mass exodus of medical professionals, particularly doctors and nurses, to countries where they can work in better conditions. According to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), as of 2021, about 10,000 Nigerian doctors were practicing in the United States alone, with thousands more in the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries. The education sector is similarly beleaguered, with universities frequently shutting down due to strikes, poor funding, and inadequate facilities, driving academics to seek opportunities abroad.
A third factor contributing to brain drain is the pervasive insecurity in Nigeria. The country has been grappling with various forms of violence, including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts, for over a decade. The rise of Boko Haram in the northeast, the persistent clashes between herders and farmers in the middle belt, and the kidnappings for ransom that plague various parts of the country have made Nigeria an increasingly dangerous place to live and work. Many professionals, especially those with young families, feel compelled to leave the country for safer environments. The tragic abduction of over 270 schoolgirls in Chibok in 2014 and the regular reports of attacks on schools, churches, and villages, highlight the extent of the insecurity. In response, many Nigerians have sought asylum or emigrated to countries where they feel their safety is assured.
Lastly, the lack of good governance and political stability in Nigeria is a significant catalyst for brain drain. Corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability have eroded public trust in government institutions and stymied efforts to improve the country’s socio-economic conditions. The failure to hold credible elections, ensure the rule of law, and protect human rights has driven many Nigerians to seek a better life elsewhere. For example, the End SARS protests of 2020, which began as a call to end police brutality, quickly morphed into a broader movement against bad governance. The government’s heavy-handed response, including the infamous Lekki Toll Gate shooting, reinforced the perception that the Nigerian state is not only incapable of protecting its citizens but is also complicit in their suffering. This has further fueled the desire among many Nigerians, particularly the youth, to emigrate.
 
Consequences of Brain Drain on Nigeria’s Development
The mass exodus of skilled professionals from Nigeria has severe consequences for the country’s development. One of the most immediate and visible impacts is the decline in the quality of public services. In the healthcare sector, the departure of doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals has left many hospitals understaffed and unable to provide adequate care to patients. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:2,500, far below the recommended ratio of 1:600. This shortage has led to increased mortality rates, particularly for preventable and treatable conditions. Similarly, the loss of educators and researchers has diminished the quality of education in Nigeria, with many universities struggling to maintain academic standards. This has created a vicious cycle, as the decline in educational quality drives more students and academics to seek opportunities abroad, further exacerbating the brain drain.
Another consequence of brain drain is the loss of potential economic growth. Skilled professionals are critical to driving innovation, increasing productivity, and improving competitiveness in the global economy. When these individuals leave Nigeria, they take with them not only their skills and knowledge but also their potential to contribute to the country’s economic development. The technology sector, for example, has seen a significant outflow of talent, with many Nigerian tech entrepreneurs and engineers relocating to Silicon Valley, Europe, or Asia. This has deprived Nigeria of the opportunity to build a robust and dynamic technology industry that could create jobs, attract investment, and drive economic diversification. Instead, Nigeria remains heavily reliant on oil exports, which are subject to global price fluctuations and offer little in terms of sustainable development.
Brain drain also has significant social and cultural implications for Nigeria. The departure of educated and skilled individuals has created a vacuum in leadership and expertise within communities, weakening the social fabric and undermining efforts to address local challenges. For instance, in many rural areas, the absence of doctors and teachers has left entire communities without access to basic health care and education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Moreover, the loss of cultural and intellectual capital has led to a decline in the vibrancy of Nigeria’s cultural and academic institutions. Many Nigerian authors, artists, and intellectuals have relocated abroad, where they can find greater support and appreciation for their work. This has diminished Nigeria’s cultural influence on the global stage and reduced the diversity of voices contributing to the country’s national discourse.
Furthermore, brain drain exacerbates the inequality and social divisions that already plague Nigerian society. The professionals who emigrate are often those with the resources, connections, and education to do so, leaving behind a population that is increasingly divided along economic and social lines. This growing inequality fuels resentment and discontent, particularly among the youth, who see fewer opportunities for social mobility and personal advancement. The increasing gap between the “haves” who can afford to leave and the “have-nots” who are left behind, contributes to social tensions and undermines national unity. This division is further deepened by the remittances sent by those who have emigrated, which, while providing a vital source of income for many families, also create dependencies and distort local economies.
 
Real-Life Examples of Brain Drain and Its Impact

Several real-life examples illustrate the devastating impact of brain drain on Nigeria. One of the most poignant cases is that of the medical sector. In 2021, it was reported that over 80 per cent of the doctors who graduated from Nigerian medical schools in the last decade had left the country. This exodus has left many hospitals in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, without enough qualified personnel to treat patients. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the vulnerabilities of Nigeria’s healthcare system, as the shortage of medical professionals hampered the country’s response to the crisis. In contrast, Nigerian doctors abroad have been making significant contributions to healthcare systems in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries, highlighting the loss to Nigeria’s own system.
In the academic sector, the story of Professor Olufunmilayo Olopade, a renowned Nigerian-born oncologist and geneticist, is a telling example. After completing her medical training in Nigeria, she moved to the United States, where she became a leading researcher in cancer genetics and personalized medicine. Her work has had a significant impact on the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in women of African descent. While her achievements are a source of pride for Nigeria, they also underscore the loss of talent that could have contributed to the development of medical research and education within the country.
The technology sector provides another striking example of brain drain. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, a Nigerian entrepreneur, co-founded Andela, a company that trains software developers in Africa and connects them with global tech companies. Despite the success of Andela, Aboyeji eventually left Nigeria for Canada, citing the challenging business environment and the lack of support for entrepreneurs in Nigeria. His departure, along with that of many other tech innovators, highlights the obstacles that prevent Nigeria from fully capitalising on its talent pool.
 
Finally, the story of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated authors, reflects the cultural impact of brain drain. Although Adichie has gained international acclaim for her novels and essays, much of her work has been produced while living abroad. Her decision to leave Nigeria was driven in part by the limited opportunities for writers and intellectuals within the country. While she continues to engage with Nigerian issues through her writing, her physical absence from the country represents a loss of cultural and intellectual leadership that could have contributed to Nigeria’s literary and artistic development.
 
Potential Solutions and the Role of Policymakers
Addressing the issue of brain drain in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that tackles both the push and pull factors driving emigration. Policymakers must first focus on improving the economic conditions within the country. This involves creating an enabling environment for businesses, reducing unemployment, and ensuring that wages are competitive with those in other countries. Economic reforms should also include measures to stabilize the currency, control inflation, and attract foreign investment. By improving the economic prospects within Nigeria, the government can make staying in the country a more attractive option for professionals.
Investing in infrastructure and public services is another critical step. The government must prioritise the healthcare, education, and power sectors, ensuring that they are adequately funded and managed. This includes upgrading hospitals and schools, providing continuous training for professionals, and ensuring that essential services such as electricity and clean water are consistently available. By improving the quality of life in Nigeria, the government can reduce the incentive for skilled professionals to seek better conditions abroad.
Addressing insecurity is also paramount. The government must take decisive action to restore peace and stability in all parts of the country. This requires not only military interventions but also efforts to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Additionally, the government should work to strengthen the rule of law, protect human rights, and ensure that all citizens feel safe and secure within the country. By creating a safer environment, the government can encourage professionals to stay in Nigeria rather than seeking refuge in other countries.
Finally, improving governance and political stability is essential to reversing brain drain. The government must demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. This includes holding credible elections, combating corruption, and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions. By restoring public trust in government institutions, the government can create a sense of hope and confidence in the future of Nigeria, making it less likely that professionals will want to leave the country.
 
Conclusion
Nigeria’s brain drain crisis represents a formidable challenge, but it is not insurmountable. The country is blessed with an abundance of human talent, but unless it takes urgent action to address the factors driving emigration, it risks losing this valuable resource to other nations. The consequences of brain drain are already being felt across various sectors, from healthcare and education to technology and culture, and these impacts will only deepen if the trend is not reversed. Policymakers must recognise that addressing brain drain is not just about retaining talent; it is about creating a nation where professionals can thrive and contribute to the development of their country. It is about building a Nigeria that offers not just hope, but tangible opportunities for all its citizens.
The call to action is clear: Nigeria’s leaders must prioritize the welfare of their people by creating an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and security. They must invest in the country’s infrastructure, improve governance, and address the economic and social challenges that drive brain drain. By doing so, they can ensure that Nigeria’s best and brightest are not just celebrated abroad but are empowered to build a brighter future at home. The time for action is now; the future of Nigeria depends on it.

***Osadolor, the President,
Nigerian Young Professionals’ Forum (NYPF) writes from Abuja

END

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Opinion

On Yahaya Bello: What Does Gov Ododo Really Want?

Published

on

Yahaya Bello and Usman Ododo

By Yushau A. Shuaib

My first encounter with Usman Ododo occurred at PRNigeria Centre Abuja in February 2021, exactly four years ago, when he sought strategic communication supports for Governor Yahaya Bello’s aspirations. He portrayed a committed and loyal aide, yet I found it peculiar that he never mentioned his own political ambitions.
It was through our legal adviser, the now Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Yunus Abdulsalam, who accompanied him, that I learned Ododo was likely to be the anointed candidate of then-Governor Yahaya Bello.

At the time, I struggled to understand how Yahaya Bello—a charismatic and high-profile governor—could endorse someone who struck me as remarkably humble and reserved, lacking the typical boastfulness and vainglory associated with Nigerian politicians. As the Auditor General for Local Governments, Usman Ododo had never served as a flamboyant commissioner in a lucrative ministry or as the chief executive of a prominent state agency.
Despite his low political profile, I later learned that he had been quietly supporting philanthropic initiatives through various groups and individuals, benefiting communities across the state. Interestingly, these efforts were often perceived as coming from Yahaya Bello himself, likely due to Ododo’s evident admiration for the governor.

A few days later, I received an invitation from a respected media colleague to attend a press engagement with Governor Yahaya Bello.
This encounter later became the subject of my article, “Governor Yahaya Bello for President of Nigeria?” In it, I reflected on our earlier acquaintance when he served as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member and was subsequently offered automatic employment at the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). At the time, I served as Head of Press and Public Relations from 1999 to 2005.

I noticed Bello’s intense publicity push, especially regarding his controversial stance on the COVID-19 pandemic, which he infamously downplayed as a “glorified malaria.” He consistently defied safety measures, opposed vaccination efforts, and countered public health narratives—actions that attracted significant media attention, similar to former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Despite facing a barrage of criticisms from formidable opposition forces both within and outside the state, which often cast him as a controversial figure and undermined his notable strides and achievements in empowerment, revenue generation, infrastructure development, and other areas, Yahaya Bello as an achiever remains one of the most misunderstood governors of the Buhari era.

During the meeting, I informed Yahaya Bello of Usman Ododo’s support for his presidential aspirations. In response, the governor smiled and downplayed Ododo’s role, saying, “Watch out for that guy… he is a perfect candidate for the future.”

Intrigued, I began researching Ododo’s background. Born on January 1, 1978, in Okene, he pursued academics at the Federal Polytechnic Bida, where he earned both a National Diploma and a Higher National Diploma in Accounting, later obtaining a B.Sc. in Accounting (Forensic) from Achievers University, Owo. His professional trajectory included positions as Assistant Manager of Revenue at the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and Finance Manager at the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN). In 2016, Governor Yahaya Bello appointed him Auditor General of Local Governments in Kogi State. His financial management and compliance expertise earned him memberships in esteemed organisations such as the Nigeria Institute of Management (NIM), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.

While serving as Auditor General, Ododo was nominated as the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and subsequently won the 2024 governorship election at age 46.

A defining aspect of Ododo’s character is his unwavering loyalty, humility, and sincerity. His deep allegiance to Bello has drawn both admiration and criticism. Many believe Bello’s endorsement of Ododo was a calculated move intended to preserve his political legacy and influence within the state.

As governor, Usman Ododo has demonstrated remarkable loyalty to his predecessor, even going so far as to assist Bello in evading scrutiny and arrest, as reported. Ododo’s administration largely mirrors Bello’s policies, emphasizing strong alignment with his predecessor’s political interests.

In a nation where anointed candidates often turn against their benefactors, Ododo’s steadfast loyalty to Yahaya Bello stands out as exceptional. His readiness to confront federal agencies, such the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC), raises questions about his priorities. This loyalty is not merely political; it appears personal and calculated, though it comes with risks of potential political isolation and damage to reputation.

Despite not being particularly outspoken or inclined to grant press interviews, Ododo has been quietly impacting the state through infrastructure development, reconciliation with opposition groups, and fostering peaceful coexistence.

A recent executive summary of a monthly PRNigeria media review on Kogi State highlights a mix of positive efforts, security challenges, and political developments. The report indicates that Ododo’s administration is commended for budgetary allocations, welfare initiatives, and infrastructural projects, although security threats and political controversies dominate public discourse. The report suggested that strengthening security, project implementation and judicious utilisation of resources and strategic media relations will be vital for sustaining positive public perception and effective governance.

Meanwhile, to gauge the sentiments of Kogi indigenes, I consulted Mojeed Dahiru, a respected public commentator and columnist from Okene. He commented, “Ododo has a peaceful disposition… he views himself as a governor for all, striving to build consensus among political leaders, ethnic groups, and religious communities, even engaging with the opposition.”

Similarly, I reached out to Haruna Abdullahi Haruspice, a renowned social media influencer and Igala chieftaincy titleholder, to gain insight into Ododo’s leadership style. While praising the governor, Haruspice noted that he demonstrates a humane approach to leadership, marked by remarkable humility, particularly in the face of adversity and hostile environments. Moreover, he highlighted Ododo’s promising prospects for ensuring equitable distribution of government interventions across the state.

An Abuja-based youth activist, Shuaibu Omoolowo, described Usman Ododo as a leader who has demonstrated the potential to steer Kogi State toward a prosperous future. He noted that while Ododo remains loyal to the former Governor, who continues to serve as a guiding figure in his career, Bello’s influence does not interfere with his decision-making, allowing him to take independent actions and lead with autonomy.

Despite the commendations, concerns persist regarding perceived favoritism or nepotism, especially in appointments and resource allocation from some quarters.

The pathway ahead for Governor Usman Ododo requires a careful balance between loyalty and the democratic ideals of accountability to the people of Kogi State.

Someone once posed a simple yet profound question that remains unanswered: “In loyalty to Yahaya Bello, what does Ododo really want?”

Yushau A. Shuaib is the author of An Encounter with the Spymaster.” yashuaib@yashuaib.com

Continue Reading

Opinion

Crusoe Osagie: The Kleptomaniac Propagandist of a Failed Governor

Published

on

Fred Itua

By Fred Itua

Crusoe Osagie, the mouthpiece of Godwin Obaseki, has once again exposed himself as nothing more than a desperate liar scrambling to whitewash eight years of abject failure. His latest outburst against Governor Okpebholo is not just laughable—it is the last kick of a drowning man trying to defend a political disaster.

Let’s be clear: Obaseki’s reign was a catastrophic betrayal of the people of Edo State. And Osagie, his attack dog, is nothing but a paid town crier peddling falsehoods in broad daylight.

Who is Crusoe Osagie, and why should anyone take him seriously? The former head of government media, who was often evasive, too busy to engage with journalists except when money is involved, and rarely available to highlight the administration’s ‘achievements’, has suddenly found his voice. Now, he appears to be an attention seeker—a political opportunist in search of relevance.

This is the same man who, in 2016, swore on his ancestors’ grave that Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s vision must be sustained through Obaseki. The same Osagie who, in 2020, turned around and called Oshiomhole all sort of unprintable names. Today, he is singing another tune because he has lost relevance.

Let’s break down the nonsense Osagie is laboring hard to sell.

1. Why is Obaseki Afraid of an Audit?

If Obaseki has nothing to hide, why is he so terrified of assets verification? Why is Osagie screaming like a guilty child caught stealing meat from the pot? Governor Okpebholo is simply asking for a review of how Edo’s assets were handled. But instead of providing facts, Osagie is jumping like a rattled rat.

We all know why.

The so-called “private-sector investments” were nothing but a front for Obaseki and his cronies to grab State assets. Lands meant for the public were cornered by friends of government under the guise of development projects.

The Benin Central Hospital was not just shut down—it was looted and converted for Obaseki’s selfish ambitions. What exactly is Obaseki hiding? Crusoe Osagie, go and tell your boss that no amount of wailing will stop the truth from coming out.

2. Osagie, You Want to Talk About Governance? Let’s Talk!

Osagie claimed that Okpebholo has failed in 90 days. Did he forget that his boss, Obaseki, spent his first tenure blaming Oshiomhole for everything under the sun? It took Obaseki two years to build a single road, yet Osagie wants us to judge Okpebholo in three months?

Obaseki spent eight years running Edo like a private empire, disrespecting elders, sidelining lawmakers, and fighting everyone.

Under Obaseki, public servants were treated like slaves—civil servants went years without promotions, and pensioners were left to die in frustration. Yet Osagie wants us to clap for failure. Never!

3. Benin Central Hospital: A Monument to Obaseki’s Wickedness

Osagie had the audacity to justify the destruction of the Benin Central Hospital. According to him, a renowned, historic hospital was shut down so that Obaseki could build a museum. A museum!

So, in Obaseki’s mind, tourists are more important than sick Edo citizens? Instead of fixing the health sector, he turned hospitals into political projects for his godless agenda.

Stella Obasanjo Hospital was underfunded, yet Osagie wants us to believe that Edo’s healthcare improved? This is pure wickedness. And only a soulless propagandist like Crusoe Osagie would dare to justify it.

4. Edo’s Debt Crisis: The Lies and the Facts

Crusoe assumed Edo people have forgotten? Let’s talk about the debt mess that his boss left behind.

Edo’s debt skyrocketed under Obaseki because he accessed reckless loans under the guise of investments. The State’s revenue remained stagnant, meaning Obaseki was borrowing money with no plan to pay it back.

Osagie wants us to believe that currency fluctuations are to blame? Then why are other States managing their finances better? Obaseki left Edo drowning in debt, and you think we will let that slide?

5. Radisson Hotel Scam—A National Disgrace

We have not forgotten about the Radisson Hotel scandal. Obaseki dubiously accessed State funds, built a hotel, and then handed it to “private investors.” Who are these investors? What process was used in selecting these briefcase investors? Why was Obaseki in a dubious hurry in the twilight of his satanic administration to conclude the hostile sell-off?

This was another well-orchestrated heist. But Edo people are watching.

6. The Betrayal of Edo Youths

Since Osagie loves to talk about governance, let’s talk about how his boss betrayed Edo youths.

He promised jobs, but delivered mass unemployment—the so-called EdoJobs program was a joke. He destroyed transport unions, leaving thousands of young people stranded without work. He turned Edo into a land of suffering while his own family and friends enjoyed State resources.

What legacy are you defending, Osagie? The legacy of hunger, hardship, and hopelessness?

Crusoe Osagie is nothing but an irresponsible, shameless and a political jobber trying to remain relevant. Known among journalists in Edo State as a petty tyrant who turned the Government House Press Unit into his personal estate, and used government powers to suppress and oppress them, his rant against Okpebholo is not about Edo—it is about his desperation to keep eating from Obaseki’s stolen wealth.

But Edo people have moved on. The era of lies is over. The era of propaganda is over. The era of deception is over and never again will Edo State experience an Obaseki nor Edo Journalists come in contact with an Osagie Crusoe – the sadist, kleptomaniac attack dog of a failed governor

*Crusoe can cry from now till 2027, but Obaseki’s legacy remains what it is: a complete disaster.*

*Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor.*

Continue Reading

Opinion

This is not the time to play with the educational system in Nigeria

Published

on

Olu Agunloye

By Dr. Olu Agunloye. 7 February 2025

It is disturbing that the current Administration of President Bola Tinubu is considering or making or attempting to make cosmetic changes in the educational systems which is already in near comatose state? Nigerians have seen too many ephemera un-progressive changes in the educational sector, and now they are only yearning for value-added and well thought out developmental changes, not superficial or cosmetic changes.

In the 40s and 50s, children were not allowed to start the elementary school except they were “mature”, averagely, like from 12 years of age or older. This bogus age barrier shifted down gradually. For me, personally, as an omo tisa, I started school at the age of 8 years in the old Western Region of Nigeria. My sister, Modupe, even started at six years of age. The elementary school system then was changing from Class 1 to 7 to Pry I to VI. I started at Class 1 in 1954 and was promoted from Class 3 in 1956 to Pry III in 1957 and graduated elementary school in 1960. You could see how I lost one year because of the system change. After completing the elementary school, I entered the era of changing the 6-year secondary school system to a 5-year system with a 2-year Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) school and three years to graduate at the university. I was lucky to start Form 1 in a secondary school that was already on the 5-year programme. Several other secondary schools were still on the 6-year programme for another six years to my knowledge.

On the national scene, the Pry-[Sec]-Tertiary system changed from 7-[6-2]-3, that is, 18 years to graduate to 6-[5-2]-3 or 6-[5]-4, that is, 16 years or 15 years to graduate starting from the elementary school. This system further changed for the next generation to 6-[3-3]-4, that is, 16 years to graduate at the university level, and now, the President Tinubu Administration is changing to a new system of 12-4 for the new generation in a way that appears not well-thought out.

Nigerian leaders in the past introduced the three-year Modern School subsystem after the elementary school and the HSC system, a two-year course after the 5- or 6-year secondary school system followed by a 3- or 4-year tertiary education at the University. All these pointed to the fact that our leaders were only striving to look for an appropriately well-suited educational system. Those changes were traumatic for pupils, and they disrupted the career paths of quite a number of young people. Couple of decades later and many presidencies after, Nigeria has yet not got it right.

Unfortunately, in 2025, the Tinubu Administration appears not yet able to get a firm grip on appropriate reforms in the educational sector. The new or proposed system still gets children to graduate in 16 years if they don’t quit. But, unlike the current system being replaced which lets you get out of the educational conveyor belt at three intermediate junctions, after Pry 6, or JSS3 or SS3, this new system is designed for only one exit, the Secondary School or the O’ Level exit for those who won’t complete at the tertiary level. The Tinubu government has not yet revealed the fundamental improvements, the benefits and the novel contents in the new 12-year basic education system that will make it better than the 6-3-3-4 system. We hope that the real advantages of the new system are not limited to the savings that the Government will make from conducting only one exit-examination instead of three.

Children are expected to get into formal learning process as early as four years of age and remain on the chain of educational processes until they can pick up a vocation and make contributions to own livelihood, the community and the nation. The irreducible minimum we expect in Nigeria is for generations of children and young people to get progressively better values, better ethics, and better learning environments from the educational system. For now, we await all these to unfold under the Administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Good News? As I was pondering on the yet to be revealed benefits of this new educational system announced by Government other than the arumoje savings from dodging exit examinations and certifications that are necessary and imperative, I came across a desirable denial from the Honourable Minister of Education saying, “The proposal seeks to migrate to 12 years of compulsory education while retaining the current 6-3-3 structure.”

Pray, why should Government advertise a proposal still in the works? Would they have had time for this if they had squarely faced the numerous challenges in the educational system that had been systematically degraded over the years. We wait.

Dr. Olu Agunloye,
… writing from Abuja, holds a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate degree in Physics from the University of Ibadan, as well as a Master’s degree in Applied Geophysics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, USA. He was the Pioneer Corps Marshal of FRSC, former Special Adviser to Hon. Attorney General of the Federation, former Minister of Defence (Navy), former Minister of Power and Steel, and currently the National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, SDP.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 National Update