Peter Obi Slams FG Over Poor Education Management, Criticizes 12-Year Policy

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has condemned the Federal Government’s handling of the education sector, describing its recent policy shift as an admission of failure. In a post on his verified X handle, Obi reacted to the government’s plan to abolish the separation between Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) and Senior Secondary Schools (SSS), arguing that the move highlights years of mismanagement. He stressed that education is the backbone of human capital development and economic growth, warning that Nigeria cannot overcome stagnation without prioritizing education, healthcare, and job creation. Obi pointed to poor examination outcomes as evidence of systemic decline:In 2024, only 38.32% of candidates passed English and Mathematics in the WASSCE. In 2025, just 32% passed the computer-based WASSCE.He also criticized budgetary allocations, noting that education received only ₦3.52 trillion in the 2026 budget, just 6.17% of total expenditure, down from 7.87% in 2025, and far below UNESCO’s recommended 15–20%. “The Minister’s admission reflects a broader failure of public leadership,” Obi wrote. “The issue is not the JSS/SSS policy itself, but the lack of commitment to properly fund, manage, and deliver quality education.” Obi urged the government to emulate successful Asian nations by investing in curriculum development, motivated teachers, and improved learning environments.

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