The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has intensified efforts to address the growing challenge of out-of-school children (OOSC) in Nigeria, unveiling a regional enrolment campaign across the Northwest zone for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Speaking on the initiative, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, said the campaign is part of the commission’s mandate under the UBE Act of 2004 to ensure that every Nigerian child, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to quality education.
She explained that UBEC is working in partnership with UNICEF to implement a “Framework of Action” that prioritises community-based campaigns to boost enrolment. According to her, the strategy targets vulnerable groups including the girl-child, Almajiri children, street children, and children with special needs.
“This is not just about numbers; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind,” Garba said. “We are creating safer and more conducive learning environments, providing essential materials, and improving teacher quality through continuous professional development.”
The UBEC boss stressed that the enrolment drive was not only a government effort but a collective responsibility, urging parents, guardians, community leaders, and civil society organisations to support the initiative.
“The out-of-school children crisis affects every corner of our society, and each child represents a future we cannot afford to lose,” she added.
UBEC noted that the campaign builds on ongoing interventions to rehabilitate schools, provide instructional materials, and strengthen accountability within the basic education sector.
