Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has warned that Nigeria is facing long-term economic and social consequences due to decades of insufficient investment in the education sector. Speaking at a policy forum on national development, Osinbajo described education as the “single most important driver of sustainable growth,” stressing that neglect in this area is already costing the country dearly.
Osinbajo noted that underfunding has resulted in deteriorating infrastructure in public schools, overcrowded classrooms, outdated learning materials, and poorly equipped laboratories. He explained that these deficiencies weaken the quality of graduates entering the workforce, making it harder for Nigeria to compete in a knowledge-driven global economy.
According to him, the country’s youth population — often described as a demographic advantage — risks becoming a liability if educational standards are not urgently improved. He warned that millions of young people without access to quality education and employable skills increase the likelihood of unemployment, social unrest, and economic stagnation.
The former vice president also highlighted the gap between Nigeria’s education budget and international benchmarks. He said that while global development bodies recommend significant budgetary allocation to education, Nigeria continues to fall short, leaving institutions under strain and educators overburdened.
Osinbajo emphasized the need for reform beyond funding alone. He called for curriculum modernization to align with emerging sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and digital services. He also advocated stronger partnerships between universities and industries to ensure that academic training translates into real-world skills.
Another key issue raised was the welfare of teachers. Osinbajo stated that low remuneration and limited professional development opportunities discourage talented individuals from joining or remaining in the teaching profession. He urged federal and state governments to prioritize teacher training and improved compensation to restore dignity to the profession.
Participants at the forum agreed that education reform must involve all tiers of government, the private sector, and civil society. Some experts called for expanded scholarship programs, investment in technical and vocational training, and the adoption of digital learning platforms to bridge gaps in access.
Osinbajo concluded by stressing that education spending should not be seen as a cost but as a strategic investment. Countries that consistently invest in human capital, he noted, enjoy higher productivity, innovation, and social stability. He warned that failure to act decisively could widen inequality and slow Nigeria’s development for decades.
