The Federal Government has unveiled three critical policy documents aimed at strengthening teacher education, improving almajiri education, and tackling drug and substance abuse in secondary schools and tertiary institutions. The launch, which took place yesterday, was led by Minister of Education Dr. Olatunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, with representatives from UNESCO and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in attendance.
Dr. Alausa explained that the ministry has adopted an 80 per cent implementation and 20 per cent policy development model, in line with international standards, emphasizing that reforms must deliver measurable outcomes across all states. He appreciated the continued support of development partners, including UNESCO and UNICEF, noting that the new policies are designed to enhance existing frameworks or fill gaps where no policies previously existed.
Highlighting the importance of implementation, Alausa said: “Policy is just 10 per cent of the work. Implementation is the heart of what we do. Commissioners will drive this work while the Federal Government provides technical support and resources.” He stated that the National Teachers’ Policy aims to strengthen teacher quality, upgrade competencies, and improve professional development. The government has accelerated digitalisation of teacher training programmes and plans to launch a digital platform for continuous professional development. Additionally, all public school teachers will be required to be licensed by the Teacher Registration Council to ensure high educational standards.
The policy on drug and substance abuse seeks to address rising drug use among students, incorporating counselling and behavioural support, while warning that repeat offenders will face sanctions. Alausa stressed, “We must protect our youth. Addiction destroys lives, and President Bola Tinubu believes strongly in the capacity of Nigerians.” Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad highlighted that the policies directly address key challenges in Nigeria’s education sector, complementing the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative and ensuring that no child is left behind.
Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Lawal Olohungbebe, pledged full state-level implementation of the policies. He emphasised that while the policies were formulated at the federal level, execution rests with the states. “We’ll do our best to ensure that every part of these policies is well implemented. We are strategic, decisive, and deliberate. We will do everything we can,” he said, underscoring the commitment of all state education commissioners to achieving tangible results nationwide.
