DAILY COURIER – The recent Supreme Court judgment granting full financial autonomy to local government councils is poised to significantly enhance Nigeria's universal basic education system, addressing long-standing financial limitations and administrative challenges.
Speaking at the public presentation of the book "Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria," authored by former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Professor Modupe Adelabu, key stakeholders highlighted the transformative potential of this autonomy.
The autonomy empowers local governments, which are directly responsible for providing primary education, to better align with the federal government's educational agenda. This alignment is crucial for overcoming financial constraints that have historically impeded the effective implementation of universal education policies.
In his remarks, a prominent figure at the event emphasized the ongoing reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at addressing the inadequacies and ideological barriers that have frustrated universal education in Nigeria.
"As stewards of the nation, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is leading the charge to reform the institutions tasked with overcoming the ideologies and inadequacies that have long hindered universal education in our country," he stated.
The financial autonomy of local governments is expected to facilitate improved resource allocation, more efficient management of educational funds, and greater accountability at the grassroots level. This move is seen as a critical step toward ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality education, irrespective of their geographical location.
The book launch, held in Abuja, provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the implications of the Supreme Court's ruling and the broader impact of local government autonomy on Nigeria's educational landscape. Attendees expressed optimism that these changes would pave the way for a more robust and inclusive educational system, capable of meeting the needs of all Nigerian children.
The event underscored the importance of local government councils in the delivery of primary education and the need for continuous reforms to address systemic challenges. The consensus among participants was clear: empowering local governments financially is a crucial step toward achieving the universal education goals that Nigeria has long aspired to.
