Education
NIGERIAN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM: A CRITICAL ASSESSMENT AND NEED FOR REVIEW
By: Professor Frank Amagwu & Chuks Sokari
The Nigerian educational system has experienced an inexcusable decline over the years, particularly in the last thirty years (1995 to date). This situation began in the 1980s during a troubling period known as the “expo era,” where systemic corruption permeated the West African Examination Council (WAEC) processes. Question papers were illicitly smuggled and sold to students ahead of examinations, setting a troubling precedent that has only spiraled in severity over the years.
As the reputation of public schools—both at the secondary and tertiary levels—deteriorated, an increasing number of Nigerians, particularly from affluent backgrounds, began to seek alternative educational options. Many opted for private institutions, both locally and abroad, creating a stark divide in educational access and quality. This trend not only exacerbated inequalities but also weakened public educational institutions, which became abysmally underfunded and neglected; poor (if not total absence of) infrastructure, inadequate remuneration for teachers, and increased strikes and restiveness of students were manifest.
Public schools increasingly became associated with poverty and lower standards, while private schools flourished for those who could afford them, thus fostering a troubling class consciousness among Nigerians. Sadly, this situation has not only remained unchanged but has become worse.
Tragically, the Nigerian educational system has suffered a final blow, relegating it to a status where only local or foreign private schools are deemed acceptable by the privileged elite.
REASONS FOR THE COLLAPSE OF OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Nigerian privileged class, comprised of economic operators in both the public and private sectors, is largely responsible for the decline and eventual demise of the Nigerian educational system. Employers are now more interested in foreign or private university graduates in their hiring decisions. This has created an undeniable stigma against local graduates and a strong desire to study abroad to prevent the glaring discrimination against them who, despite their qualifications, are still deemed inferior and inadequately trained for employment. Worse still, for graduates of our public schools, it is a case of ‘to your tents, oh Israel’, and many, out of frustration from years of job hunting, end up as okada riders or Keke drivers.
The authorities at the top echelon of our educational sector, often complicit with private interest, have, over the years, amassed tremendous wealth through corruption and mismanagement of public funds to establish their own private secondary schools and universities. This has led to the proliferation of private secondary schools and universities that cater exclusively to the wealthy, further exacerbating the challenges faced by public education and driving more students away from public institutions.
IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF THE BOOM IN PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS…
1. Emergence of more private universities with inadequate infrastructure.
2. Attractive profit margins for investors, charging higher school fees without corresponding training facilities and quality of results.
3. Increased corruption among authorities in the ministries responsible for approving/licensing new schools, leading to poor standards in monitoring and evaluation.
4. Growing appetite and patronage for private university and secondary school education.
5. High school fees as a distinguishing criterion for the quality of education in Nigeria.
6. High influx and increased student population in private schools.
7. Contamination of monitoring and evaluation standards, which have plagued public schools, is now prevalent in private schools as well.
In the end, as the classical economists would say, ‘we are all dead.’ What goes around comes around. Most private universities and secondary schools have now become glorified commercial enterprises, suffering much the same fate as public schools, despite the enormous fees being paid by parents.
In all these instances, ‘Nigeria is happening to us’ across the various sectors of our economic landscape.
THE WAY FORWARD
To reverse the decline of Nigeria’s educational system, a comprehensive overhaul is imperative. Stakeholders—including the government, private sector employers, educators, and parents—must engage in a collaborative effort to rebuild public education. This includes prioritizing funding for infrastructure, enhancing teacher training and support, and implementing policies that ensure equity across all educational institutions.
Furthermore, public perceptions of local education must be transformed. By valuing and promoting the achievements of graduates from public schools, we can begin to dismantle the stigma that has been attached to these institutions and instill pride in what they can offer.
In conclusion, the Nigerian educational system is at a critical juncture. The pathway forward requires collective action and a renewed commitment to ensuring that all Nigerian children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to quality education that equips them for the future. Only then can we hope to restore integrity and functionality to our educational landscape.
The Urgent Need for Review of the Nigerian Educational System
The deteriorating standards of Nigeria’s educational institutions and the quality of its graduates together underscore the dire need for a comprehensive review of the educational system. In an increasingly interconnected and competitive world, it is imperative that Nigeria’s educational system aligns with global information technology innovations and advancements.
The current structure of Nigeria’s educational system is unsuitable and inadequate to meet contemporary global standards and demands. The system is fragmented, with varying quality across public and private institutions. This has led to a significant gap in educational outcomes, with many graduates lacking the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the global job market.
To address these issues, the Nigerian educational system can be restructured into the following five categories:
Nursery and Primary Education
Secondary Education
Technical Educational Institutions
Public University Education
Private University Education
This restructuring aims to create a more cohesive and standardized system that ensures quality education at all levels. It envisages a system where there will be no more private secondary and private technical/tertiary education institutions in Nigeria.
To implement this effectively, the following measures should be considered:
Four ministries of education should be established, each headed by two ministers—one senior and one junior—responsible for specific areas such as nursery and primary education, secondary education, technical education, and university education.
Separate education boards should also be established to supervise the management of these specific institutions. This will ensure focused and efficient oversight.
The following additional areas should also be included in the review:
School Fees: An implementation of regulations to check arbitrary and discriminatory fees. Standardization of fee structures will ensure affordability and accessibility for all.
Infrastructure and Logistics: Investment in infrastructure and logistics will provide a conducive learning environment. This includes building and maintaining of classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other essential facilities.
Hostel and Accommodation Evaluation: Periodic evaluation of hostel and accommodation facilities will ensure they meet safety and comfort standards.
Industry Collaboration: Fostering of strong collaboration with industries will offer opportunities for student attachments and internships. This will provide students with practical experience and enhance their employability.
Exchange Programs: Encouragement and promotion of exchange programs with international institutions will expose students to diverse cultures and educational practices, thereby broadening their perspectives.
University Sports and Games: Organizing university sports and games for both private and public universities will promote physical fitness, teamwork, and a sense of community among students.
CONCLUSION
The current state of the Nigerian educational system is a call to action. It is clear that without immediate and comprehensive reforms, the system will continue to fail the youth and, by extension, the nation. The proposal to revamp the educational structure into distinct categories, coupled with the establishment of specialized ministries and supervisory boards, represents a strategic approach to addressing systemic failures. By tackling issues such as fee regulation, infrastructure, industry collaboration, and international exchange programs, Nigeria can forge a path towards an educational system that not only meets global standards but also serves as a pillar of national development.
The success of these reforms hinges on the unwavering commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders—government, educators, private sector, and parents. By prioritizing education and ensuring equitable access and quality, Nigeria can uplift its youth and position itself competitively on the global stage. In doing so, we will not only restore the integrity of our educational institutions but also lay the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for Nigeria.
Professor Frank Amagwu is Faculty; Micro & Dev. Finance, Apollos University Great Falls, Montana USA. Also, Adjunct Professor, Accounting & Finance, PG Biz Sch, ANAN University.
Chuks Sokari is a Retired Deputy Director (Operations), CBN.
Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, Anambra State, were allegedly prevented from writing their examinations after they failed to purchase textbooks reportedly authored or recommended by some of their lecturers.
According to complaints received from affected students, the students had paid their required school fees and were duly expected to participate in the examinations. However, they were allegedly turned away from the examination hall because they had not purchased the textbooks.
The students expressed frustration over what they described as an unfair practice, questioning why payment of school fees and fulfilment of other academic requirements would not be sufficient to qualify them to sit for their examinations.
One of the students who spoke on the matter alleged that the affected students were asked to leave the examination venue after it was discovered that they had not bought the textbooks.
The students have appealed to the university authorities to investigate the allegation and ensure that no student is denied access to an examination on the basis of failure to purchase a lecturer’s textbook.
For fear of further victimisation, this report will not disclose the department and names of the lecturers involved.
The development has sparked concerns about academic practices and the welfare of students, with calls for university management to clarify whether lecturers are permitted to make the purchase of their textbooks a condition for students to participate in examinations.
The allegation could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report. The university authorities are yet to publicly comment on the matter.
Students and parents are expected to watch closely for the university’s response to the allegation, particularly given the potential implications for students’ academic progression.
By Okey Maduforo, Awka
The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has banned, with immediate effect, all forms of orchestration, celebration and “signing-off” activities by final-year students in connection with their final examinations on all university campuses and premises.
In a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah, the university said the decision was prompted by recurring incidents of chaos, violence, vandalism and disruption of academic and administrative activities associated with such events.
“Management is also concerned about the infiltration of unauthorised persons onto campus during these activities, which poses a serious threat to the safety and security of students, staff and university property.
“In fulfilment of its statutory obligation to maintain order, protect lives and safeguard property, Management considers such activities unacceptable and a breach of University regulations,” the statement said.
The university spokesman warned that any student found involved in organising or participating in any form of “signing-off” or related activities would face severe disciplinary sanctions, including rustication and withdrawal from the university, in accordance with the Students’ Handbook.
The statement also warned non-students and outsiders against entering the university premises in connection with the banned activities.
“Any person who is not a bona fide student or staff of the University found on University premises in connection with such activities shall be arrested and prosecuted for breach of peace, trespass and disorderly conduct,” it stated.
The Registrar of the university, Dr Chinenye Gloria Okeke, had earlier communicated the directive to the university community through an internal memo, urging students to remain focused on their academic responsibilities.
She also called on staff, students and members of the public to report any planned or ongoing misconduct to the Chief Safety Officer, Dean of Student Affairs or the nearest university authority for immediate action.
The university, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie, said it remained committed to providing a safe, peaceful and conducive environment for teaching, learning and research.
Management, it added, would not tolerate any action capable of undermining the safety, order and academic environment of the institution.
A hostel building has reportedly collapsed at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, with an unknown number of students feared trapped beneath the rubble.
The multi-storey building reportedly caved in on Sunday night, July 27, 2026, while students were inside.
Eyewitnesses said residents and students in the area heard a loud rumbling sound shortly before the structure suddenly collapsed, sparking panic.
A large crowd reportedly gathered at the scene as residents and students rushed to assist in the rescue efforts before emergency responders arrived.
Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to determine the number of people trapped and evacuate those affected.
By Okey Maduforo, Awka
Paul University, Awka, has suspended a member of its academic support staff, Ven. Cornelius C. Eze, an Anglican priest, over allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student.
The development also appears to vindicate the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, which had earlier denied claims circulating on social media that the individuals involved were members of its staff and student body.
In a statement issued by its Public Relations Department, UNIZIK had clarified that neither the alleged staff member nor the student was affiliated with the institution.
Meanwhile, Paul University has launched an internal investigation into the allegations while relevant law enforcement agencies have also commenced their inquiries.
Ven. Eze, who serves as a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, was placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of the university’s disciplinary process and the police investigation.
The suspension was announced in a statement dated July 17, 2026, signed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Rev. Godisplan Onukwufor.
According to the statement, the allegations were brought to the attention of the university management on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Management said it immediately invited security agencies to intervene in order to prevent a breakdown of law and order following tensions among students.
The university stressed that the suspension is an administrative measure taken without prejudice to the outcome of the investigations.
A video circulating on social media, whose authenticity has not been independently verified, allegedly shows the suspended staff member dressed only in boxer shorts and apparently fleeing from his office amid a commotion. The footage has been widely shared alongside claims that he was caught in a compromising situation by angry students and members of the university community.
However, the university did not comment on the authenticity of the video or the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.
Reaffirming its commitment to ethical standards, the faith-based institution said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, abuse of office, immoral behaviour, and any conduct capable of endangering the safety, dignity, or welfare of students and staff.
The university stated that anyone found culpable after due process would face appropriate disciplinary measures in line with its regulations and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Management also disclosed that counselling and psychological support would be provided for the affected student(s) and other members of the university community.
It urged the public to avoid speculation and the spread of misinformation while investigations are ongoing, assuring parents, guardians, students, and staff of its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and morally sound learning environment.
The university added that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
The presidential candidate of the NDC for the 2027 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has described the Federal Government’s suspension of the proposed increase in examination registration fees as a welcome relief and a victory for the Nigerian people.
The Federal Government on Monday suspended the proposed review of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
In a statement, the Federal Ministry of Education said the fee adjustment proposal contained in its June 18, 2026 letter had been withdrawn pending broader consultations with stakeholders.
The Ministry explained that the proposed increase was necessitated by the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations. However, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.
According to the Ministry, consultations will be held with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents, organised labour and other stakeholders before any decision is taken. It also assured Nigerians that the proposed fee review would not take effect until the consultations are concluded, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting students’ welfare.
Reacting to the development, Obi commended the government for listening to the widespread public outcry but maintained that the proposed fee hike should never have been introduced.
“While I commend the authorities for listening to the widespread public outcry and suspending the policy, it must be said that the fee was an unnecessary burden that should never have been introduced at this time of great hardship, when we should be doing everything possible to invest in basic education and reduce the millions of out-of-school children in Nigeria,” he said.
Obi argued that at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, access to education should be expanded rather than restricted.
“Education is a fundamental right and a public good, not a source of government revenue,” he said.
He added that imposing multiple fees at the basic education level risks denying many children their right to education.
“At that stage, the State has a duty to invest in educating and preparing its citizens for productive lives, not to erect financial barriers that keep them out of school,” Obi stated.
He further noted that true leadership is demonstrated not only by making decisions but also by having the humility to reverse policies that impose unnecessary hardship on the people, adding that many other anti-people policies deserve similar reconsideration.
Obi thanked citizens, parents and advocacy groups whose collective voices contributed to the suspension of the proposed fee increase, concluding with his familiar message: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
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