EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

OLABISI MONSURAT AKINLADE

Authors

AKINLADE OLABISI MONSURAT; (Ph.D) Department of Education Management, University of Abuja

Abstract

Introduction

Education is universally recognized as a cornerstone for social progress, national development, and individual empowerment. In Nigeria, a country endowed with vast human and natural resources, education serves as a vital instrument for building human capital, fostering innovation, and promoting economic growth. Since independence, successive governments have emphasized the importance of education through various policies, reforms, and expansion of institutions. However, despite its acknowledged role in national development, the Nigerian education sector continues to grapple with numerous challenges that hinder its effectiveness and global competitiveness.

The problems facing education in Nigeria are multifaceted and deeply rooted in structural, political, and socio-economic realities. These include inadequate funding, dilapidated infrastructure, shortage of qualified teachers, frequent strikes, poor curriculum implementation, corruption, insecurity, and unequal access between urban and rural areas. The crisis is further exacerbated by high dropout rates, gender disparities, and the large population of out-of-school children—the highest in the world. These challenges not only weaken the quality of education but also limit the capacity of the system to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for active participation in a rapidly changing society.

Yet, amid these obstacles, solutions exist that can transform the education landscape in Nigeria. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic and sustainable approach that involves all stakeholders—government, private sector, civil society, communities, and international partners. Strategic solutions such as increased investment in education, teacher development, curriculum reforms, integration of technology, improved governance, and inclusive policies can reposition the system to meet contemporary demands.

This chapter examines the major problems confronting education in Nigeria and explores practical solutions for overcoming them. Thus, this chapter is discussed under the following subheadings.