Shettima Pushes for Education Funding to Boost West Africa's Human Capital
A New Era in Nigerian Education
The Aliko Dangote Foundation has launched a groundbreaking education scholarship initiative, marking a significant step toward transforming Nigeria’s educational landscape. This move comes as part of a broader effort to ensure that every child in the country has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The foundation has committed an annual budget of ₦100 billion to support education, with a projected total investment of ₦1 trillion over the next decade. This ambitious program is designed to provide scholarships and other forms of educational support across multiple levels, from primary to tertiary education. The initiative aims to expand access to quality learning for young people throughout Nigeria.
A Call to Action
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who officially flagged off the initiative, emphasized the importance of recommitting to the future of Nigerian children. He highlighted the role of education as a powerful tool for transformation and urged all stakeholders to take responsibility for building a better tomorrow.
Shettima noted that the current generation must focus on creating opportunities rather than merely holding positions of power. “Let us live our lives so that posterity will remember us not for the offices we held or the titles we bore. Posterity must remember us for the doors we opened and the lives we transformed,” he said.
He also called on the private sector and corporate entities to invest more in education, arguing that they are key players in ensuring the survival and development of Nigeria's education system. Shettima pointed out that a youthful population can be a global asset only when it is educated, and without proper education, it becomes a threat to itself and the nation.
Addressing Historical Challenges
The Vice President acknowledged the historical challenges faced by formal education in Nigeria. He spoke about how education was once viewed with suspicion, seen as an intrusion that could estrange children from their heritage. However, he stressed the need to move beyond these misconceptions and work towards a future where education is universally valued.
Shettima praised the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, including the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the expansion of programs such as TETFUND and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). These initiatives aim to create equitable access to education and align with the national agenda for human capital development.
A National Emergency
The Vice President described the current state of education in Nigeria as a national emergency, emphasizing the need for urgent action. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, civil society, and international partners to reclaim Nigeria’s destiny through education.
Shettima also commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his visionary approach to philanthropy. He described Dangote as a colossus in a nation of giants, noting that his contributions to education go beyond mere financial support. Dangote’s philanthropy is structural, generational, and deeply rooted in a long-term vision for the country.
Expanding Opportunities
The Aliko Dangote Foundation has announced partnerships with various government agencies, including NELFUND, NECO, and WAEC, to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection of beneficiaries. The program will prioritize merit-based selection, ensuring that those who benefit are truly deserving.
Additionally, 25 percent of the scholarship slots will be reserved for individuals living with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and equity. This gesture has been praised as a humane and forward-thinking approach to education.
Global Recognition
The initiative has received widespread recognition from both local and international figures. United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed commended the foundation’s efforts, particularly highlighting the focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). She emphasized the importance of investing in girls’ education as a powerful driver of societal progress.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Dangote’s commitment to the future of Nigerian youth, while Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, encouraged continued efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), pledged the committee’s dedication to the success of the initiative.
Vision 2030
The event culminated in the unveiling of the Vision 2030 logo, symbolizing the foundation’s long-term goals. The initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on Nigeria’s human capital, strengthening the country’s workforce and contributing to sustainable development over the next decade and beyond.
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