The Federal Ministry of Education recently hosted a high-level National Inclusive Education Policy Workshop, bringing together key stakeholders, development partners, and education professionals to chart a path toward a more equitable and accessible learning system for all Nigerian children.
Held in Abuja yesterday, the workshop served as a pivotal forum to assess progress and deepen national commitment to inclusive education focusing on ensuring no learner is left behind, regardless of disability, gender, socio-economic status, or background.
Participants engaged in robust discussions on how to redesign learning environments, adapt teaching methods, and strengthen classroom support systems to better meet the diverse needs of all learners. The dialogue emphasized the need for a transformative approach to education—one that promotes equity, participation, and learner-centered practices.
Key Stakeholders and Contributions
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, emphasized the need to translate Nigeria’s National Policy on Inclusive Education and National Policy on Gender Education into concrete, actionable strategies. She stressed the role of collaboration between school owners, state ministries, development partners, and the Federal Government in promoting gender-responsive and inclusive learning environments across the country.
In his remarks, Dr. Iyela Ajayi, Executive Secretary of the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), described Special Education Desk Officers as “the architects of inclusion.” He emphasized their role in creating safe and inclusive learning spaces and called for stronger action against gender-based violence in schools.
Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), highlighted the magnitude of the task, noting that over 35.5 million Nigerians live with disabilities. He underscored the urgent need for adaptive infrastructure and inclusive pedagogical approaches to combat bullying, exclusion, and discrimination.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Kehinde Osinaike, Deputy Director of Science and Technology, called on participants to embrace inclusive practices fully and ensure that policies are translated into classroom-level action.
Reflections and Progress
Participants also reflected on the strides made since the revision of the National Policy on Inclusive Education, which has seen growing adoption across several states. While acknowledging this progress, stakeholders agreed that major challenges remain especially in building public awareness, training educators, upgrading school infrastructure, and ensuring effective policy implementation nationwide.
The workshop served as a platform to share innovations, commit to joint actions, and re-affirm Nigeria’s dedication to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.
As one participant noted, “Inclusive education is not just about changing teaching methods, it’s about transforming the entire learning system to support every child, everywhere.”
