The Federal Government has re-enrolled more than one million out-of-school children across Nigeria as part of its renewed national effort to strengthen foundational learning and expand access to quality education. This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during his visit to the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in Akure on Wednesday ahead of the 69th National Council on Education (NCE) meeting.
Alausa, who unveiled wide-ranging reforms targeting teacher development, digital learning, and data-driven policy implementation, said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to transform Nigeria’s education sector through technology and innovation. He noted that the new policies aim to ensure inclusiveness, improve learning outcomes, and build a sustainable future for Nigerian students.
In his presentation, the Minister of Education highlighted major reforms being implemented under the Tinubu-led government, including the Teacher Registration and Licensing System (TRLS) through the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), and the establishment of the National Teachers’ Resource Centre (NTRC) for nationwide teacher training.
He explained that teacher development programmes have now been moved online, allowing educators across the country to access training remotely and earn financial incentives upon completion. According to him, the initiative is designed to motivate teachers and bridge the learning gap between rural and urban areas.
Alausa said, “We have moved teacher development online, where teachers anywhere in the country can access training, take short breaks, and after passing, they will be paid for completing their development programmes. In rural areas, where teachers earn less, such incentives of ₦10,000 to ₦15,000 make a real difference.”
He added that teachers would also enjoy free data access under the programme, while digital payment systems would ensure smooth implementation. He said the government’s focus on digital learning would enhance transparency, efficiency, and participation across all levels of the education system.
The minister also announced the launch of the Digitised National Education Management Information System (DNEMIS), a cloud-based platform designed to improve real-time data collection and promote evidence-based decision-making.
“For the first time in Nigeria’s history, school census data is now cloud-based. From 2026, every school, even in rural areas, will upload data directly using mobile devices. We can now make informed, evidence-based interventions and monitor outcomes,” he said.
Speaking further on efforts to address the growing out-of-school children crisis, Alausa revealed that over one million children had already been identified and brought back into classrooms through targeted interventions.
“Contrary to popular belief, 95 per cent of out-of-school children are out because of poverty, not insecurity. President Tinubu has approved significant funding to bring them back and ensure retention through school feeding and welfare programmes,” he stated.
He disclosed that a school feeding programme targeting 300,000 pupils is currently being piloted in six states, with plans for nationwide expansion. The initiative, he said, would boost attendance and retention rates, particularly in underserved communities.
Alausa encouraged Ondo State to consider establishing an Education Trust Fund similar to the model adopted in Bauchi State, which he described as an effective tool for supporting foundational education and promoting sustainable development.
“I’ll be happy if Ondo State quickly adopts the education trust fund model. It’s a strategy that can directly support foundational schools and strengthen the state’s industrialisation agenda,” he advised.
The minister commended Ondo State for its proactive approach to educational development and restated the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting states in teacher training, basic education, and digital transformation. He said the collaboration between federal and state governments would ensure that education remains the cornerstone of national development.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in his response, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining education reforms and aligning with Federal Government initiatives. He described education as the foundation of human capital development and national progress, adding that Ondo State remains dedicated to improving access and quality in the sector.
He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for choosing Ondo State as the host for the 69th National Council on Education meeting, saying the decision reflected confidence in the state’s commitment to promoting learning and innovation.
Aiyedatiwa said, “Thank you for the energy and disposition towards Ondo State. You chose us, and we accepted to host you because education remains a shared responsibility between all levels of government.”
He commended the Ministry of Education for its strengthened focus on teacher training, licensing, and digital learning, stressing that such reforms complement ongoing state-led initiatives aimed at building a knowledge-driven economy. The governor also lauded President Bola Tinubu for prioritising education under the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring that Ondo State would continue to align its policies with national objectives.
“Education remains the cornerstone of development. What we have achieved so far in Ondo is through the commitment of stakeholders and our shared vision to build a productive and knowledge-driven state,” he added.
Aiyedatiwa further acknowledged the efforts of education administrators and civil servants in ensuring policy continuity, describing them as the “institutional memory” that preserves progress beyond political transitions. He also praised the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, for her continued support for innovation and scientific advancement within the state’s education ecosystem.
The event was attended by key government officials including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun; Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Victor Olabimtan; and Director General of OSRC media group, Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson.
