The educational crisis in Nigeria is deepening, with UNICEF highlighting that merely one in four school-attending children can read adequately and carry out basic math operations by age 14.
During a media discussion on Digital Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Skills Development for Out-of-School Children in Ede, Osun State, UNICEF’s Chief of the Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, described the statistics as troubling.
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“I want to emphasize that only 25% of Nigerian children currently in school can read effectively and solve basic math problems by age 14,” she stated.
Lafoucriere also pointed out that millions of children are still out of the education system, making them susceptible in an increasingly digital environment.
“These figures are not just statistics in government documents. They represent real children growing up without essential skills necessary for survival, employment, supporting families, or contributing to the economy,” she explained.
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She warned that the rise of artificial intelligence and digital technologies could exacerbate inequality if urgent educational and digital skill investments are not made.
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“Those children who are adept at using technology will have opportunities, while those who lack these skills will be left behind,” she remarked.
UNICEF Education Specialist Harold Kpojime indicated that Nigeria has approximately 20 million out-of-school children, one of the highest numbers globally. He emphasized that the challenge lies not only in enrolling children but also in ensuring they stay in school and complete their education.
Osun State Education Commissioner, Dipo Eluwole, represented by Permanent Secretary Muritala Jimoh, noted that issues like insecurity, poverty, and migration continue to fuel the out-of-school crisis, while the government and development partners are working on interventions to enhance educational access.
