Senator Shehu Sani warns of Northern Nigeria’s public school crisis
In a stark warning about the deteriorating state of public education in Northern Nigeria, Senator Shehu Sani has called upon regional leaders to urgently prioritise educational reforms.
Speaking at the 40th anniversary of Government Science College, Kagara, organised by the Kagara Old Boys Association (KAGOBA), Class of 1984 in Minna, Sani lamented the decline of public schools, particularly in the North.
Highlighting the historical significance of public schools as once the pinnacle of education, Sani emphasised their pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s best minds.
“In our days, these schools boasted teachers from around the globe, nurturing future professors, doctors, engineers, senators, and captains of industry,” he recalled.
Sani expressed grave concern over the current state of these institutions, attributing their decline to neglect and the pervasive influence of banditry and terrorism.
He bemoaned the fate of Government Science College, Kagara, which recently fell victim to a harrowing attack by bandits, resulting in the abduction of students and staff.
Despite the challenges, Sani commended efforts to relocate the school temporarily to Minna for enhanced security, noting improvements under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
“There is evidence that significant strides have been made in neutralising terrorist commanders across the country,” he added optimistically.
Chairman of KAGOBA, Alhaji Jafar Tukur, echoed Sani’s sentiments, describing the current condition of Government Science College, Kagara, as unfortunate.
He highlighted the association’s decade-long efforts to support the school, particularly in providing essential resources like furniture for students during WAEC examinations.
The abduction of 27 students and several staff members from Government Science College, Kagara, in February 2021 prompted widespread concern and led to the closure of nearby boarding schools by then Governor Sani Bello.
As Northern Nigeria grapples with these challenges, Sani urged leaders to prioritise education as a fundamental pillar of development, stressing the urgent need for concerted efforts to revive and safeguard public schools across the region.
