Nigeria will require about $345 million annually to tackle its growing out-of-school children crisis, according to Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education.
Speaking at a private sector education forum in Lagos, the minister said the funding estimate reflects the cost of reintegrating and equipping an estimated 15 million out-of-school children with essential skills.
Alausa noted that the challenge remains significant nationwide, with about one in four children aged 5-14 out of school. The situation is more severe in the North-East and North-West, where the figure rises to over two-fifths.
He stressed that while reforms are ongoing, Nigeria still faces a major funding gap that requires urgent collaboration, especially with the private sector.
The minister described education as central to Nigeria’s economic ambitions and human capital development, noting that scaling impact would depend on sustained investment.
“The challenges in the sector also present opportunities to expand access, improve quality, and strengthen systems,” he said.
Alausa highlighted several initiatives already underway, including:
- N10.6 billion disbursed to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres
- N3.4 billion paid directly to trainees
- Over 1.3 million applications received for TVET programmes, with 160,000 matched to centres and 72,000 currently enrolled
He also revealed that more than N156 billion has been invested in upgrading 18 medical schools and selected engineering institutions, including funding for laboratories, workshops, and new hostels.
To promote innovation, the government has launched a Student Venture Capital Grant, offering equity-free funding to selected STEM students.
On the international front, Nigeria is partnering with Italy on a global education initiative expected to mobilise up to $15 billion for foundational learning across 90 countries.
Beyond basic education, the government is also improving access to tertiary education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
So far, over N206 billion has been disbursed to more than 1.16 million students, reflecting strong demand for education financing since the scheme’s launch.
Alausa urged private sector players to align with national education priorities, emphasising a coordinated approach that ensures transparency, accountability, and measurable impact in tackling the crisis.
