New Post Africa

Category: Education

  • Oyo Abduction: Adeleke orders immediate revamp of Safe School Initiative in Osun

    Oyo Abduction: Adeleke orders immediate revamp of Safe School Initiative in Osun

    OSOGBO, Nigeria (Agency Report) — Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed the immediate revitalisation of the Safe School Initiative following the recent school abduction attack in Oyo State.

    NAN reports that gunmen on Friday invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting pupils, students, teachers, and a vice principal.

    Two people — a primary school head teacher and a motorcyclist — were also killed during the deadly attack.

    The directive was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Osogbo by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

    According to the statement, Governor Adeleke said the move was a precautionary step aimed at preventing any possible spillover of school kidnapping incidents into Osun State.

    The governor also ordered the immediate strengthening of intelligence gathering around schools located in border communities and remote areas across the state.

    Adeleke further directed the Osun Amotekun Corps to deepen collaboration with non-governmental peace and security organisations currently supporting security operations in schools.

    “I assure parents and school authorities of the safety of pupils and students across the state,” the governor stated.

    He added that the Special Adviser on Security Matters had been instructed to work closely with service commanders and relevant agencies to implement the new security measures.

    Governor Adeleke said his administration remained committed to safeguarding pupils and students within the state’s educational system.

    He noted that additional steps were being considered to further strengthen security in schools, particularly those located in rural communities.

    “The existing Safe School Plan will be strengthened.

    “The Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, and the Security Adviser must immediately meet to finalise the revitalisation plan,” Adeleke ordered.

  • Peter Obi decries rising schoolchildren kidnappings, warns of deepening education crisis in Nigeria

    Peter Obi decries rising schoolchildren kidnappings, warns of deepening education crisis in Nigeria

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential aspirant and chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the recent wave of mass kidnappings involving schoolchildren in both Northern and Southern Nigeria, describing the incidents as a tragic reflection of the country’s worsening insecurity crisis.

    In a statement titled, “Sad: Schoolchildren Now ‘Pawns in Ransom Economy’,” Obi said there was nothing more heartbreaking for a nation than its inability to protect its children.

    He lamented the recent abduction attacks on students in Mussa Village, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State and Ahoro-Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, warning that the growing trend poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s future.

    According to him, beyond the immediate trauma inflicted on victims and their families, the attacks amount to a direct assault on children’s right to education and safe upbringing.

    Obi noted that persistent insecurity around schools often forces many children, particularly girls, out of the classroom permanently due to fear of further attacks.

    The former Anambra governor further expressed concern over Nigeria’s already alarming out-of-school children crisis, warning that continued kidnappings and attacks on educational institutions could further worsen the situation.

    “In areas repeatedly affected by these attacks, education systems gradually collapse as fear becomes a major barrier to school enrollment,” he said.

    He stressed that securing schools must go beyond logistics, insisting it remains a moral responsibility for government and society.

    The NDC chieftain called for a combination of community-based intelligence gathering, improved security infrastructure around schools, and a transparent justice system capable of holding perpetrators accountable.

    “For the actualization of a new Nigeria that is possible, we must make the safety, education, and wellbeing of our children a priority,” Obi stated.

  • LASU extends 2025/2026 second-semester academic calendar by one week

    LASU extends 2025/2026 second-semester academic calendar by one week

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Lagos State University (LASU) has announced a one-week extension of its approved academic calendar for the 2025/2026 academic session second semester.

    The approval was granted by the Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, on behalf of the University Senate.

    According to a notice issued by the institution, the extension became necessary to allow for the completion of outstanding academic activities and proper coordination of academic and administrative processes for the second semester.

    Under the revised schedule, resumption, registration and lectures for both new and returning students will now run from Monday, March 2 to Friday, May 29, 2026, spanning 13 weeks.

    The university stated that second-semester examinations will commence from Monday, June 1 to Friday, June 26, 2026.

    Grading and uploading of results are scheduled to take place between Monday, June 29 and Friday, July 10, 2026.

    Departmental and faculty consideration of results, uploading of corrections and ICT processing of results will hold from Monday, July 13 to Friday, July 17, 2026.

    According to the revised calendar, collation of results and the Senate meeting for consideration and approval of results will take place from Monday, July 20, to Friday, July 24, 2026.

    The university further disclosed that the end-of-session break will commence on Monday, July 27, 2026.

    LASU added that the sessional break will now run from Monday, July 27, to Friday, October 23, 2026, while the 2026/2027 academic session is expected to commence on Monday, October 26, 2026.

    The institution advised students, staff and members of the university community to take note of the adjustments and comply accordingly.

  • FG pushes digital literacy, inclusion, child protection ahead of 2026 Children’s Day celebration

    FG pushes digital literacy, inclusion, child protection ahead of 2026 Children’s Day celebration

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion, digital literacy and social protection for Nigerian children as part of activities marking the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.

    Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, disclosed this during a media briefing held on Friday in Abuja ahead of the celebration themed: “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”

    According to the minister, the theme reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child is included regardless of gender, disability, socio-economic background, religion, ethnicity or geographical location.

    “The Nigerian child is no longer viewed merely as a passive recipient of welfare interventions, but as an active participant in national transformation, innovation, leadership and sustainable development,” she said.

    Sulaiman-Ibrahim revealed that the ministry had intensified implementation of the “Future Now Initiative” aimed at equipping children with digital literacy, STEM education, innovation exposure, artificial intelligence awareness and other future-ready skills needed to compete in the global digital economy.

    She added that through the National Children’s Parliament, the ministry has continued to strengthen child participation and child-friendly programmes to ensure children contribute to discussions and decisions affecting their wellbeing.

    “This will ensure that children are not merely beneficiaries of policies, but active contributors to discussions and decisions affecting their lives and wellbeing,” she added.

    Also speaking, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Muyi Aina, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.

    “We must recommit ourselves to building a healthier, safer and more inclusive Nigeria where no child is left behind,” he stated.

    He further called on parents, caregivers, teachers, traditional rulers, faith leaders, the media and other stakeholders to continue supporting immunisation, adolescent health, nutrition, maternal and child healthcare as well as child protection initiatives.

    Director of Programme Operations at Save the Children Nigeria, Mr Joshua Anar, stressed the need for stakeholders to move beyond commitments and take concrete actions toward strengthening child protection, education and inclusive services for every Nigerian child.

    “Today’s event is not only a celebration of children, but also a reminder of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive Nigeria where every child has equal opportunity to thrive,” he said.

    Acting Chief Child Protection Officer at UNICEF, Mona Aika, also reaffirmed commitment to strengthening child protection systems, preventing violence and harmful practices, and ensuring children’s rights are protected in every environment.

    Country Director of Girl Effect Nigeria, Mrs Boladale Akin-Kolapo, urged stakeholders to continue building inclusive, safe and responsive systems that address the needs of every child.

    “Let us continue to amplify children’s voices, protect their rights and create opportunities that allow them to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

    Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria Children’s Parliament, Ibrahim Zanna-Sunoma, emphasised the need to invest in equitable opportunities, break barriers of exclusion and create a Nigeria where every child is seen, protected and empowered.

    “Anything for us without us is not truly for us. Let them not fail in their responsibility to protect, nurture and empower every child,” he stated.

  • FG unveils National Education Data Infrastructure to strengthen planning, accountability

    FG unveils National Education Data Infrastructure to strengthen planning, accountability

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Government has launched a new National Education Data Infrastructure (NEDI) aimed at improving education planning, learner tracking, transparency and service delivery across Nigeria’s education sector.

    Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Thursday following a landmark stakeholder meeting on the initiative.

    According to the minister, the platform is designed to address longstanding data gaps that have hindered effective policy implementation and planning within the education system.

    “For too long, gaps in data have limited effective planning, learner tracking and policy implementation across the sector. Through NEDI, we are changing that,” Alausa said.

    He revealed that more than 32 million learners and over 220,000 schools across 21 states have already been captured on the platform.

    The minister described NEDI as Nigeria’s “single source of truth” for education data, noting that the initiative would strengthen evidence-based decision making, accountability, transparency and efficient service delivery at all levels of education.

    Alausa explained that the platform would also support efforts to tackle examination malpractice, identity fraud and the proliferation of illegal examination centres through the introduction of the National Learner Identity Number (NLIN).

    According to him, the NLIN will be linked to the National Identity Number (NIN) to enable proper learner identification and monitoring from school enrolment through employment stages.

    “Through the National Learner Identity Number linked to the National Identity Number, we are tackling examination malpractice, identity fraud and miracle centres while improving learner tracking from enrolment to employment,” he stated.

    The minister said the initiative marks a major shift from what he described as years of poor and unreliable education planning driven by inadequate data systems.

    “The era of operating blindly in education planning is over. We are building the systems needed to deliver real outcomes for Nigerians,” he said.

    Alausa noted that the project aligns with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and the six-point agenda of the Federal Ministry of Education aimed at transitioning Nigeria from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven economy.

    He added that the initiative also supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focused on institutional reforms, digital transformation and improved public service delivery.

    The Federal Government said the new data infrastructure is expected to provide policymakers, institutions and stakeholders with more accurate and reliable information needed to improve educational outcomes nationwide.

  • JAMB says Mathematics no longer compulsory for admission into some university courses

    JAMB says Mathematics no longer compulsory for admission into some university courses

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) says Mathematics is no longer a compulsory requirement for admission into some university courses in Nigeria.

    Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Director of Public Affairs and Protocol, disclosed this during an appearance on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) programme, “Good Morning Nigeria,” monitored by NPA on Wednesday.

    Benjamin explained that the new policy adjustment applies only to selected courses, while Mathematics would still remain compulsory for programmes where it is relevant.

    According to him, candidates seeking admission into certain courses, including Hausa, may no longer require a credit pass in Mathematics.

    He, however, maintained that candidates must still obtain the minimum required credits for admission into tertiary institutions.

    “Mathematics will no longer be a requirement for admission into university courses, only for some specific courses,” he said.

    Benjamin also stated that Nigeria currently lacks sufficient admission spaces to accommodate the large number of applicants seeking university admission annually.

    He explained that JAMB’s role was to ensure fairness and equity in the admission process by allocating available spaces to qualified candidates.

    According to him, the board processes admission for between 700,000 and one million candidates.

  • Sanwo-Olu celebrates as LASU remains Nigeria’s most sought-after university ahead of UNILAG

    Sanwo-Olu celebrates as LASU remains Nigeria’s most sought-after university ahead of UNILAG

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed delight as Lagos State University (LASU) once again emerged as the most sought-after university in Nigeria in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    According to official data released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), LASU attracted an overwhelming 84,426 applicants, securing the top spot ahead of the University of Lagos (78,240), Obafemi Awolowo University (60,370), University of Ibadan (58,895), and University of Benin (55,425).

    Governor Sanwo-Olu described the milestone as a historic achievement in LASU’s 41-year journey, affirming its reputation as a centre of academic innovation, discipline, and global competitiveness. He attributed the success to the Lagos State Government’s sustained investment in education under the THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises funding, infrastructure, and technological advancement.

    “LASU’s improved performance is the result of visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and hardworking students. Our administration remains committed to making LASU one of the top 10 universities globally,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He commended Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello for her transformative leadership, noting that her innovative approach to learning and reforms has elevated LASU’s standing nationally and internationally. “Prof. Olatunji-Bello has been a game-changer in university administration, and her efforts have attracted recognition beyond Nigeria,” he added.

    The Governor praised LASU’s consistent production of high-quality graduates, improved academic performance, and modern infrastructure, assuring that the institution will continue to shape the future of young Nigerians. He urged staff and students to sustain the momentum and maintain LASU’s position as the nation’s most preferred university.

    In recent years, LASU has introduced reforms to enhance academic standards, deepen research, and foster a student-centred learning environment. These efforts have ensured its steady rise in both national and international rankings, reinforcing its role as a beacon of excellence in higher education.

  • UNILAG VC raises alarm over impersonation on LinkedIn, WhatsApp

    UNILAG VC raises alarm over impersonation on LinkedIn, WhatsApp

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, has reacted to reports of fraudsters impersonating her on LinkedIn and WhatsApp platforms.

    Ogunsola, the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the university and the institution’s first female vice-chancellor, thanked Dr Joe Abah for bringing the matter to her attention.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the vice-chancellor said she had already notified LinkedIn headquarters about the impersonation and had also published several disclaimers and cautionary notices warning members of the public.

    Her response followed concerns raised by Dr Joe Abah, who disclosed that he received a LinkedIn connection request in March from an account bearing Prof. Ogunsola’s identity.

    According to Abah, he accepted the request and later received a WhatsApp number purportedly belonging to the vice-chancellor for easier communication.

    “She then sent me her WhatsApp number for ease of communication, and we have been chatting and exchanging pleasantries since then,” he said.

    Abah, however, stated that the WhatsApp account later began sending suspicious messages believed to be linked to online fraud. “Two days ago, the number started to send me what were clearly 419 fraud messages,” he said.

    He added that efforts to verify the authenticity of the account through LinkedIn and text messages received no response, prompting fears that the LinkedIn profile itself may have been created for fraudulent purposes.

    “It just struck me that the person with the WhatsApp number may have created the LinkedIn profile for fraud purposes,” he added.

    Abah appealed to anyone familiar with the vice-chancellor to alert her to the situation, noting that he deliberately withheld the phone number from public disclosure in case it belonged to her and had merely been compromised.

    Identity theft and impersonation targeting prominent individuals have remained a growing challenge within Nigeria’s telecommunications and cyberspace, with fraudsters often exploiting the identities of public figures to defraud unsuspecting victims.

  • ASUU warns of strike over poor implementation of 2025 Agreement

    ASUU warns of strike over poor implementation of 2025 Agreement

    YOLA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned that poor implementation of its 2025 agreement with the Federal Government could trigger fresh industrial action across public universities in Nigeria.

    ASUU President, Mr Christopher Piwuna, issued the warning on Monday during a news conference held after the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola.

    Piwuna expressed concern over what he described as the Federal Government’s failure to inaugurate the Implementation Monitoring Committee provided for in the agreement signed with ASUU in December 2025.

    According to him, the delay is already affecting the smooth implementation of the agreement and creating inconsistencies in its execution.

    “Government’s failure to inaugurate the Implementation Monitoring Committee is undermining the smooth execution of the 2025 agreement.

    “The absence of the committee has created room for distorted and uncoordinated implementation of the agreement,” he said.

    The ASUU president warned that the gains recorded during negotiations could be reversed if the Federal Government failed to fully implement all aspects of the agreement.

    He alleged that some government agencies and university authorities were selectively implementing parts of the agreement, particularly in relation to the payment of lecturers’ allowances.

    Piwuna also accused some vice-chancellors of failing to fully implement agreed welfare packages for academic staff.

    He further stated that some state governments that participated in the negotiations had yet to implement the salary component of the agreement for lecturers in state-owned universities.

    According to him, unresolved issues affecting lecturers include withheld salaries, promotion arrears, salary shortfalls and unremitted third-party deductions.

    “The continued delay in addressing these issues is worsening frustration among lecturers in public universities,” he said.

    Piwuna called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure all outstanding welfare issues were addressed in order to sustain industrial harmony in the university system.

    The ASUU president also criticised the proposed National Research and Innovation Development Fund announced by the Federal Government, saying it fell short of the provisions contained in the agreement reached with the union.

    He explained that the agreement recommended allocating at least one per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to research funding.

    Piwuna further rejected the Federal Government’s proposed establishment of a campus of Coventry University in Nigeria under the Transnational Education framework.

    He described the proposal as “neo-colonial” and warned that it could undermine Nigeria’s tertiary education system and local universities.

    The ASUU president also opposed plans to scrap some university courses considered irrelevant, insisting that every academic programme contributes to societal and economic development.

    He disclosed that ASUU would convene an emergency NEC meeting in the coming weeks to review developments and determine its next line of action. (NAN).

  • JAMB warns institutions against illegal admissions outside CAPS

    JAMB warns institutions against illegal admissions outside CAPS

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned tertiary institutions against offering admissions outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), describing the practice as illegal and contrary to federal regulations.

    The warning was issued by the JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions held on Monday in Abuja.

    According to Oloyede, some institutions were still issuing admission letters to candidates without approval through CAPS, despite existing government directives.

    He said the practice undermines transparency and fairness in the admission process.

    The registrar also alleged that there were cases where candidates with higher examination scores were denied admission, while others with lower scores secured placements.

    According to him, disciplinary measures have already been initiated against institutions involved in such practices, adding that sanctions would be enforced where necessary.

    Oloyede further disclosed that a case involving 11 universities over alleged illegal admissions is currently before the court.

    The JAMB registrar also addressed complaints regarding candidates allegedly being posted outside their selected examination towns.

    He explained that candidates personally choose their preferred examination towns during registration and are only assigned to centres within those approved locations.

    According to him, investigations conducted by the board confirmed that no candidate was posted outside his or her selected examination town.

    He added that the matter was also reviewed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

    Oloyede reiterated that all admissions into tertiary institutions in Nigeria must be processed through CAPS and urged institutions to comply strictly with approved admission guidelines.