By DAYO ADESULU
Former President Urges Urgent Action to Address Educational Deficiencies During Road Inauguration in Bauchi
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised alarm over the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, warning that failure to address this issue could lead to a new generation of Boko Haram insurgents. His remarks were made during the inauguration of the dualised Awala-Mairuguri Road and the Awalah-Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa National Airport Road in Bauchi on Sunday.
Critical Need for Education and Capacity Building
In his speech, Obasanjo highlighted the staggering statistics reported by the World Bank, indicating that over 20 million children in Nigeria are currently out of school. “For a population of about 220 to 230 million, that is 10 percent of our population that should be in school but are not,” he stated.
He emphasized that this educational deficiency poses a significant threat not only to individual development but also to national security. “This is recruitment for future Boko Haram, and nobody needs to tell us that,” he cautioned, urging stakeholders to recognize the long-term implications of the crisis.
Long-Term Consequences of Inaction
Obasanjo warned that the lack of education equips these children with limited opportunities, making them susceptible to extremist ideologies and criminal activities in the future. “We are preparing them for whatever form of banditry… they may be coming to homes and be snatchers of people from their homes,” he predicted, highlighting the potential for violence if these issues remain unaddressed.
Call for Collective Action
The former president called on leaders at all levels—government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders—to collaborate in finding sustainable solutions to the out-of-school children crisis. He stressed the importance of education and human capacity building as essential components in creating a safer and more prosperous society.
Acknowledgment of Development Efforts
Obasanjo commended Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for his commitment to infrastructure development through road construction and renovation projects, noting that such initiatives could open new opportunities for growth and development. He underlined the connection between improved infrastructure and enhanced access to education and resources.
Conclusion
Obasanjo’s remarks serve as a critical reminder of the urgent need to address the out-of-school children crisis in Nigeria. By prioritizing education and human development, leaders can help mitigate the risk of future extremism and violence, fostering a safer and more stable society for all citizens.
