The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to protecting Nigerian students and strengthening safe learning environments through sustained investment in the Safe School Initiative.
The Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, gave the assurance in Abuja during the 2025 International Students’ Day celebration organised by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement.
The remarks were contained in a statement issued by the SA’s office on Thursday.
According to the Minister, the government will continue to prioritise funding for education, including teachers’ salaries, school-feeding programmes, and improved campus safety through initiatives such as the Safe School Initiative.
She said, “The youth of this country are a collective responsibility of everyone, not just the Student Union or the Ministry of Education. The brilliance, resilience, and creativity of our students are central to building Nigeria’s leadership, talent, and intellectual resources. Today, we celebrate more than just high grades. We celebrate the future of Nigeria.”
Speaking at the event, the Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, underscored the critical role of education in national development.
He noted, “Every great society is built on the brilliance, diligence, and imagination of its young people. Today, we proudly honour the best graduating students from our universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and the Nigerian Law School.”
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Asefon explained that awardees received scholarships, laptops, cash prizes, and empowerment tools, while exceptional secondary-school students were each presented with ₦100,000 to promote academic excellence.
He said the initiative reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to student welfare, academic excellence, and education development.
“To all the awardees: your outstanding performances have distinguished you. You represent the best of our educational institutions, and we are proud of your achievements. I encourage you to continue leading with integrity, innovation, and a sense of responsibility,” he added.
International Students’ Day commemorates the 1939 Nazi crackdown on Czech students in Prague, during which nine student leaders were executed and more than 1,200 others arrested. It was later declared a global day of student solidarity in 1941.
This year, the National Association of Nigerian Students marked the occasion in Abuja with the theme “Empowering Students to be Agents of Change,” focusing on patriotism, productivity, and the advancement of student rights and unity.
