For more than 100,000 children in Kaduna State who’ve never set foot in a classroom—or who were forced to drop out—hope is finally on the horizon.
In a bold new initiative, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, has launched a $62.8 million education programme that promises not only to build schools, but to rebuild lives.
At the heart of the programme is a $25.35 million concessionary loan from the Kuwait Fund, signed on Tuesday in Abuja.
This forms the backbone of a broader blended financing package designed to bring inclusive, high-quality education to the most underserved children in Kaduna—especially girls, displaced children, and those with disabilities.
Director, Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement quoted Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of State for Finance to have stated,
“This is more than numbers on paper—it’s an investment in futures,”
Speaking on behalf of Wale Edun she indicated,
“We are taking education to where it’s needed most. Kaduna is leading by example, and this partnership proves what we can achieve when compassion meets accountability.”
Dr. Wahid Al-Bahar, Director-General of the Kuwait Fund, echoed the sentiment, describing the programme as an investment in hope.
“We are not just funding infrastructure—we are giving children a chance to learn, grow, and thrive. Education is the foundation of any nation’s future, and we are proud to stand with Nigeria on this journey.”
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State emphasized that education is the core of his administration’s transformation agenda—and that Kaduna is already delivering on its promises.
“We’ve increased our education budget to 26% and met our counterpart funding obligation. With 102 new climate-resilient schools and 170 upgraded facilities, we’re not just talking—we’re acting,” the Governor declared.
“This is about dignity, opportunity, and equity for every child—no matter where they were born.”
According to the statement over 100,000 out-of-school children re-enrolled in safe, inclusive learning environments,102 new schools to be built, with 170 schools renovated using climate-resilient designs, Thousands of teachers trained to deliver stronger learning outcomes and Barriers removed for girls, children with disabilities, and those displaced by insecurity
The statement gave the
Funding Breakdown to indicate $62.8 Million as Total,Kuwait Fund: $25.35M (loan),Islamic Development Bank: $10.5M,Global Partnership for Education: $15.45M (grant), Education Above All Foundation: $10M (grant), Save the Children International: $0.5M (technical assistance) and Kaduna State Government: $1M (counterpart funding)
The Federal Ministry of Finance will oversee fiduciary management and ensure results-driven implementation in collaboration with Kaduna State and development partners. Regular joint reviews will track key indicators including enrolment, teacher performance, and student learning gains.
This partnership signals a decisive step in Nigeria’s efforts to end educational exclusion and open new doors of opportunity for children long left behind. For the 100,000 children in Kaduna now promised a classroom seat—the future just became brighter.
Nigeria, Kuwait Partner to Enrol 100,000 Out-of-School Children in Kaduna
