The Honourable Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, has confirmed the commencement of the National Steering Committee’s work on the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (#HOPE) project, which includes three key sectors: HOPE-Education, HOPE-Health, and HOPE-Gov.
Speaking on Monday, Alausa stated, “We held the inaugural meeting of the National Steering Committee for the HOPE project,” highlighting that the programme is aimed at boosting human capital across Nigeria.
The committee includes prominent federal government officials such as the Minister of Budget & Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; as well as the three National Programme Coordinators.
Also present was the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, whose participation ensures early synergy and inclusiveness in the implementation process.
“The HOPE series of programmes will be catalytic to broader federal government initiatives,” Alausa explained, adding that the programmes reflect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strong commitment to investing in Nigeria’s future through education, health, and social protection.
The minister added, “We are building a nation where young Nigerians are well-educated, have access to quality healthcare, and are empowered to become a strong and productive workforce.”
HOPE-Education, a major part of the initiative, is a $552 million programme co-financed by the World Bank and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). Its focus is on improving the quality of education, expanding access, and strengthening systems nationwide.
It gives special attention to foundational learning, teacher training, data and digital education, and reducing out-of-school children.
The programme aims to reach:
i. 29 million children,
ii. 500,000 public school teachers,
iii. 65,000 public schools, and
iv. 10,000 non-formal learning centres.
“This HOPE initiative further exemplifies President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s, unwavering belief in human capital development,” Alausa added. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is delivering on his promises. Thank you, Mr. President, for your visionary leadership.”