The Kano State Government has approved a N1.1 billion initiative to provide free school uniforms to all Primary One pupils across the state, in a move aimed at boosting enrolment and reducing the number of out of school children.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the spokesperson to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the initiative forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to expand access to basic education, particularly in underserved communities. Dawakin Tofa said the provision of free uniforms is expected to enhance enrolment, improve retention, and promote equal opportunity for all children.
“Education is a right, not a privilege. This initiative will reduce the financial burden on parents and help bring more children into the classroom,” he said.
Kano State, one of Nigeria’s most populous and educationally disadvantaged states, has consistently ranked among those with the highest number of out of school children. Figures from UNICEF and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) indicate that northern Nigeria accounts for a large share of the country’s estimated 10.5 million out of school children, with Kano listed as a major contributor.
Dawakin Tofa noted that the free uniform programme complements ongoing education sector reforms under Governor Yusuf’s administration and aligns with the state government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable education.
Despite the federal government’s policy on free and compulsory basic education, access and retention remain major challenges across Nigeria, especially in rural and low-income areas.
The Kano State Government reaffirmed its commitment to reversing the trend through targeted interventions aimed at removing barriers to education.
