The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund has stated that ensuring access to quality education for all Nigerians is essential to tackling the country’s high poverty rate.
Speaking during a media briefing in Yola on Friday, the Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, Nazhat Rafique, said Nigeria can make meaningful progress in reducing poverty by prioritising inclusive and quality education for its citizens.
She stressed the importance of educating the girl-child, describing it as a key driver of national development. According to her, empowering women through education significantly contributes to societal growth.
“Give me good mothers, and I will give you a good nation,” she said.
Rafique also urged Nigerian leaders to confront gender discrimination in the education sector, noting that cultural practices and traditional beliefs continue to limit access to education for girls in some communities.
She explained that the Education Cannot Wait initiative aims to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality learning opportunities.
According to her, the collaboration between UNICEF, ECW, and the Adamawa State Government will expand educational access for underserved communities.
Also speaking at the event, UNICEF Education Specialist, Abdulrahman Ardo, said the 16-month project is designed to improve learning outcomes, particularly for vulnerable children.
He noted that the initiative will help reduce the number of out-of-school children in Adamawa State while promoting inclusive and equitable education.
Ardo further revealed that 100 teachers will be trained in climate change, disaster management, and risk control as part of the programme.
The project, which targets over 253,000 students across Adamawa, Borno State, and Yobe State, began in September 2024 and is expected to run until December 2027.
