The Lagos State Government has dismissed reports claiming it introduced a ₦20,000 education tax for parents seeking admission into public schools, reaffirming that public education remains free across the state.
The clarification was made by the Tutor-General and Permanent Secretary, Education District II, Mr. Omotayo Sanni, during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Zumratul Islamiyyah Smart Primary School in Igbogbo, Ikorodu.
No Education Tax for School Admission
Mr. Sanni explained that the state has not introduced any education levy and that parents are not required to pay ₦20,000 or any other fee to enroll their children in public schools.
He clarified that the only requirement during school registration is the presentation of a valid tax clearance certificate, which serves as proof that parents have fulfilled their civic tax obligations.
According to him, the tax clearance certificate should not be mistaken for an education tax or school fee.
He emphasized that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains committed to providing free and inclusive basic education, ensuring that no child is denied access to learning because of financial constraints.
Concerns Raised by Community Leaders
The clarification followed concerns expressed by former Minister of Works, Adeseye Ogunlewe, who appealed to the government not to introduce any form of education levy.
Similarly, former Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Chief Asipa Olusanya, warned that imposing additional financial burdens on parents could increase the number of out-of-school children, particularly among low-income families.
He argued that many households already struggle to meet basic needs and may be unable to afford additional charges.
Tax Supports Public Services
Responding to the concerns, Sanni noted that taxation is a civic responsibility and one of the government’s major sources of revenue for funding public services, including education.
He reiterated that presenting a tax clearance certificate during school registration does not amount to paying an education tax, stressing that eligible pupils will continue to enjoy free education in public schools.
Smart School Project to Enhance Digital Learning
Speaking on the new school project, Sanni praised the Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) for investing in modern educational infrastructure.
He described the Smart Primary School as a significant step toward equipping pupils with 21st-century digital skills, preparing them to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Two-Year Smart School Development
Earlier, the Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Hammed Aroyewun, said the project would be completed within two years.
According to him, the development will feature:
- A 30-classroom Smart Primary School.
- Technology-enabled learning facilities.
- Creative and innovation-focused classrooms.
- Sustainable infrastructure designed for modern education.
He explained that the initiative aims to expose pupils to technology from an early age and strengthen the quality of basic education in the community.
The groundbreaking ceremony also formed part of activities marking Aroyewun’s first anniversary in office, with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to expanding access to quality and technology-driven education across Lagos State.
