The federal government has introduced a new education program, called the Accelerated Basic Education (ABE) program.
The program aims to reach out to 80 million young people and adults who cannot read or write and have not had access to basic education.
The ABE program is designed to deliver education to these non-literate individuals across all six regions of Nigeria, ensuring that the education provided is both relevant and of good quality.
During the launch of the program at a meeting in Abuja, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by children who are not in school.
She noted that nearly 80 million people in Nigeria, which makes up about 31 percent of the country’s population, lack basic literacy skills.
Prof. Ahmad pointed out that education is essential for a prosperous society and that too many young people and adults in Nigeria are missing out on this opportunity.
She described the ABE program as a movement aimed at breaking down barriers to learning, whether they be age, location, or personal circumstances.
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“This program isn’t just a solution; it’s a commitment to provide opportunities for everyone,” she stated.
She also called for the support of non-governmental organizations and other partners to help expand initiatives that reach underserved communities.
Coordinator of the workshop and Director Literacy and Development at the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), John Edeh, said the meeting was a strategic moment for reflection, collaboration, and decisive action.
He described the commission’s goal as being a pathway for these individuals to return to learning.
Edeh mentioned that the commission focuses on providing education that adapts to the needs of out-of-school children and young people.
The commission’s approach, he explained, emphasizes flexibility and community involvement to ensure that learners can thrive.
Also, Edeh highlighted the need for collaboration among community leaders, donors, and education advocates to make education available to those who have been left behind.
