The Federal Government has announced plans to overhaul Nigeria’s education structure, citing the alarming rate of school dropouts caused by the separation of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) and Senior Secondary Schools (SSS).

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee in Abuja.

Alausa said the existing arrangement has failed to deliver seamless access to education, revealing that more than 20 million children who enrolled in primary school dropped out before reaching senior secondary level.

According to the minister, Nigeria has about 80,000 public primary schools but only 15,000 junior secondary schools, creating a major transition gap that leaves millions of pupils without access to further education after primary school.

He explained that the policy separating JSS from SSS has contributed to overcrowding in junior secondary schools while many senior secondary schools remain underutilised.

“About 24 million children enrol in our primary schools, but only about four million complete senior secondary education. We have over 20 million children dropping out between primary school and junior secondary school. Where are those students?” he queried.

Alausa said the Tinubu administration was determined to reverse the trend and expand access to education by phasing out the policy.

“The previous governments may have failed in this regard, but this government will not fail. We are fixing this. We need to create more opportunities for children to move seamlessly through the education system.

“We have overflowing junior secondary schools and empty senior secondary schools. I can objectively report today that this disarticulation policy has failed. We will phase it out,” he stated.

The minister disclosed that the proposal would be presented at the next meeting of the National Council on Education for consideration and possible adoption.

He also inaugurated a high-powered committee chaired by education expert, Prof. Rashid Aderinoye, to accelerate the completion, handover and operationalisation of Smart Schools, Bilingual Schools and Alternative Schools funded by UBEC nationwide.

Alausa expressed concern that several completed projects remained abandoned or had not been handed over to state governments despite huge public investments.

“The purpose of these schools is to educate children, not to remain locked up after completion,” he said.

Earlier, UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, said the Federal Government had made significant progress in expanding access to quality education through its specialised school programmes.

She revealed that 37 Smart Schools have been established across the country, with 24 already operational, while others are at different stages of completion and preparation for academic activities.

Garba also disclosed that 30 schools have been established under the UBEC-Islamic Development Bank Bilingual Education Programme across nine states, while the Alternative Schools Programme is providing learning opportunities for vulnerable and out-of-school children through flexible education models.

She said the newly inaugurated committee would ensure timely completion of projects, address implementation challenges and guarantee that educational investments deliver meaningful outcomes for Nigerian children.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Prof. Aderinoye pledged to work diligently to remove obstacles delaying project delivery and improve access to quality education nationwide.

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The Federal Government is seeking a fresh $1.25bn loan from the World Bank to support economic reforms, job creation, and national competitiveness, even as Nigeria’s public debt continues to climb and the facility reaches a decisive approval stage.

Findings indicate that the proposed facility, titled Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration, is expected for World Bank Board consideration on June 26, 2026.

If approved, it would become the second-largest World Bank loan secured under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after the $1.5bn development policy financing approved in 2024.

At an exchange rate of N1,361.4/$, the facility amounts to about N1.70tn, further increasing Nigeria’s external debt profile.

Loan Now At Final Approval Stage

According to World Bank documentation, the loan has progressed to the decision meeting stage, where management reviews final appraisal details before presenting it to the Board of Executive Directors.

The Federal Ministry of Finance will implement the programme, which is designed to expand access to finance, digital services, electricity supply, and strengthen competitiveness through reforms in taxation, trade, and agriculture.

The document confirms that negotiations and appraisal processes have largely been concluded, placing the project near final approval.

Nigeria’s Rising World Bank Exposure

Between June 2023 and May 2026, Nigeria has secured about $9.35bn in World Bank financing across sectors including power, education, healthcare, agriculture, and social protection.

If the new loan is approved, total World Bank commitments under Tinubu would rise to about $10.6bn.

However, many of these loans are tied to policy conditions and are released in tranches, often slowing disbursement.

Debt Stock Continues To Rise

Nigeria’s external debt stood at $51.86bn as of December 2025. With the new facility, it could rise to about $53.11bn.

Total public debt may also increase from N159.28tn to about N160.98tn.

World Bank loans already account for over 38% of Nigeria’s external debt stock, according to Debt Management Office data.

Government Raises Concern Over Approval Delays

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, has warned that Nigeria may reconsider future borrowing if World Bank approval and disbursement timelines remain slow.

He argued that loan processes extending beyond six months could disrupt project planning and national priorities.

Experts Split Over Borrowing Strategy

Economists remain divided over Nigeria’s growing reliance on multilateral loans.

Adewale Abimbola noted that concessional loans can support development if properly deployed into revenue-generating projects.

However, Aliyu Ilias cautioned that rising debt contradicts government claims of improved revenue after subsidy removal.

Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise stressed that debt sustainability depends on stronger revenue generation and careful management of exchange rate risks.

Fiscal Risks Remain High

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group warned that despite marginal improvements in debt indicators, Nigeria’s fiscal position remains fragile.

It noted that debt pressures continue to fluctuate within a high-stress range, driven largely by weak revenue performance and sustained borrowing needs.

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Pressure is mounting within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as party groups intensify calls for the removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, citing alleged anti-party conduct and actions they say undermine party cohesion and national unity.

The latest demand came from a coalition operating under the APC Leaders Forum (ALF) and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement (TSSM), which accused the former Rivers State governor of conduct inconsistent with the expectations of a serving minister in an APC-led administration.

In an open letter dated January 7, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu through the party’s national leadership, the groups argued that Wike’s continued stay in the Federal Executive Council poses political and institutional risks for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The letter, jointly signed by leaders of the coalition, was unveiled during a peaceful rally at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. The groups described the protest as part of a broader mobilisation to protect party discipline and defend the principles of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the coalition, Wike has repeatedly made public statements that openly challenge the authority of the APC’s national leadership, despite not being formally registered as a member of the party. They cited remarks allegedly made by the minister during a recent visit to Rivers State, where he was accused of verbally attacking senior APC officials and issuing statements perceived as intimidating.

The groups also accused Wike of persistently working against Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, whom they described as the APC’s duly elected governor. They alleged that the minister has openly questioned the legitimacy of the governor’s emergence, publicly criticised his leadership, and suggested that his administration should be politically corrected in 2027.

According to the petitioners, such actions amount to political sabotage and weaken the APC’s strategic position in Rivers State, a key battleground in the Niger Delta region.

Beyond party politics, the coalition raised concerns over comments attributed to Wike suggesting that certain political actors would be barred from entering Rivers State. They warned that such statements could inflame political tensions and were incompatible with the authority of the federal government.

The groups further criticised what they described as a conflict of interest, alleging that the minister had publicly acknowledged influence across multiple political platforms while serving in an APC government.

They warned that failure to address the situation could deepen internal divisions within the party and create avoidable distractions for the administration at a time of economic and security challenges.

While calling for decisive action, the coalition reaffirmed its loyalty to President Tinubu, urging him to demonstrate that party discipline applies to all political appointees regardless of influence or past alliances. They also announced plans to extend their protests nationwide if their concerns are not addressed.

As of press time, neither the FCT Minister nor the Presidency had issued an official response to the allegations.

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To boost festive-season tourism and expand family-friendly recreation in Lagos, Giwa Gardens Water Park has announced a major initiative to distribute 100,000 free tickets between December 13, 2025, and January 4, 2026.

The large-scale campaign—tagged Detty December at Giwa Gardens—is being executed in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, alongside major private-sector collaborators including Access Bank, FiberOne, MTN, Zenith Bank, and Awari App (Lost in Lagos).

In addition to the mass ticket giveaway, Giwa Gardens will sponsor 1,000 less-privileged children on December 13. Beneficiaries will enjoy free entry, meals, drinks, safety gear, and fully supervised activities—part of the park’s commitment to social inclusion.

Speaking on the initiative, Keji Giwa, Founder and CEO of Giwa Gardens, described the project as a festive gift to Nigerian families.

“Detty December is about joy, family and togetherness. By offering 100,000 free tickets, we want Nigerians—home and abroad—to have something exciting to look forward to every year. Our partnership with Lagos State and private-sector partners demonstrates our dedication to building Lagos’ tourism economy.”

Representing the Lagos State Government, Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, applauded the collaboration as a progressive model for tourism growth.

“This partnership with Giwa Gardens is a significant boost to Lagos tourism. Providing 100,000 free tickets expands access to festive experiences, and sponsoring 1,000 less-privileged children reinforces the inclusive values of our administration.”

Giwa Gardens continues to position itself as one of Lagos’ leading family recreation attractions. The park features a giant wave pool, extreme river adventure, mechanical dinosaur valley, pirate ship zone, children’s splash areas, and premium cabanas. It attracts thousands of monthly visitors and remains a top destination during festive celebrations.

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The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, led a 10-member Nigerian federal government delegation to the United States on Wednesday to meet with Congressman Riley Moore regarding Nigeria’s security challenges and reports of Christian genocide.

The visit follows recent claims by former US President Donald Trump about the alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria, prompting international attention. Since then, the Nigerian government has highlighted efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to curb insurgency and protect citizens across the country.

Key members of the delegation included Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation; General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. EAP Undiendeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to ONSA; Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations, ONSA; Ambassador Nuru Biu, Acting CDA, Nigerian Embassy; and Paul Alabi, Political and Economic Section, Embassy of Nigeria.

During the meeting in Washington, D.C., Nigerian officials outlined counterterrorism strategies, security assistance, and measures to protect vulnerable communities. Congressman Moore affirmed US support, stating that ongoing persecution against Christians and violent threats will not be ignored and pledged continued cooperation to address these challenges.

Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the President, shared updates from the discussions, highlighting the productive dialogue and opportunities to strengthen US-Nigeria collaboration on security matters.

The delegation’s engagement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to tackling terrorism and reinforcing global confidence in its efforts to safeguard citizens from targeted attacks.

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The Federal Government has renewed its pledge to reduce Nigeria’s widening housing deficit, insisting that decent shelter is not a luxury but a fundamental right for every citizen.

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, delivered the assurance at a Housing Summit in Abuja. Represented by the Director of Public Building and Development, Mr. Pemi Temitope, the Minister said housing has become a key driver of national development under President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” Agenda.

Dangiwa noted that the government no longer views housing as a financial burden but as a strategic economic tool, particularly for Nigeria’s large workforce. He said one of the biggest obstacles to home affordability remains the escalating price of building materials—a challenge the Ministry is moving to confront head-on.

To address this, the Federal Government plans to establish Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs in each of the six geopolitical zones. Dangiwa said the initiative will cut reliance on imported materials, reduce construction costs, and create jobs.

Former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, also urged housing stakeholders to embrace modern technology to expand access to affordable homes. With Nigeria’s population rising rapidly, he stressed that innovative financing and collaborative efforts are crucial to closing the housing gap.

Summit Convener and retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yemi Adelakun, expressed concern that most previous housing schemes delivered limited results, with the notable exception of the historic Jakande estates in Lagos. He called on stakeholders to work together to produce what he described as “Tinubu Houses,” affordable units that ordinary Nigerians can access on a continuous, revolving basis.

Adelakun highlighted the wider economic benefits of successful housing projects, pointing out their potential to create jobs and stimulate local economies. He added that keys to newly completed housing units will soon be handed over to members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) cooperatives.

He also announced PropPay, a new digital platform designed to pool housing savings and streamline loan access for prospective homeowners.

The summit, themed “Innovative Financing for Affordable Housing Under the Renewed Hope Agenda: Collaboration Imperatives for Housing Delivery,” gathered policymakers, developers, cooperatives, and experts from across the housing sector.

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The federal government has announced plans to involve retired military officers in community policing to reclaim areas previously controlled by terrorists and bandits.

The initiative, titled the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P),” aims to harness the expertise of military veterans to restore security and stimulate economic development.

Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru disclosed the initiative during a press briefing in Abuja marking the commencement of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

He explained that the programme will involve veterans in reinforcing local security and initiating projects in agriculture, mining, and other sectors to prevent the resurgence of insurgency while revitalizing local economies.

Badaru added that a dedicated committee is finalizing the implementation framework. He also highlighted digital initiatives to support veterans and troops, including a “Thank A Soldier” QR Code for sending messages of appreciation, and plans to review the Nigerian Legion Act, renaming it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) to strengthen legal protections and reintegration programmes.

The minister noted that under President Tinubu’s administration, over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralized, more than 17,000 arrested, nearly 10,000 hostages rescued, and 1,900 illegal refining sites destroyed. More than 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered, enabling displaced communities to return home.

Through these measures, the government seeks to combine security operations with socio-economic interventions, ensuring sustainable peace and development in previously unstable regions.

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The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has launched the construction of the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to reduce Nigeria’s housing deficit.

The groundbreaking ceremony was performed by the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and attended by the FHA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oyetunde Ojo.

In a statement by the FHA’s Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Chigelu, Ojo praised Governor Eno for his commitment to the welfare of Akwa Ibom residents, especially in the area of housing provision.

Ojo recalled the governor’s early support for the initiative, noting that the state government provided land for the project at no cost and pledged continuous collaboration to ensure its success.

He said, “When we met with His Excellency in May 2024 to seek Akwa Ibom’s partnership in the Renewed Hope Housing agenda, the reception and encouragement we received were unmatched. Launching this project here is our way of reciprocating that goodwill.”

The FHA boss explained that the Renewed Hope Housing Programme represents the fulfilment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge to deliver affordable and livable homes to Nigerians. He added that the agency has completed procurement processes for similar housing projects in Kaduna, Abia, Ogun, Ekiti, Kogi, and Adamawa States.

According to Ojo, the Federal Housing Authority has also been completing and commissioning inherited projects in line with President Tinubu’s directive that “the days of abandoned projects are over.”

He described the Akwa Ibom project as more than a housing estate, but “a livable and affordable community that will create jobs, stimulate local industries, and promote inclusive development.”

In his remarks, Governor Eno thanked the President and the FHA for selecting Akwa Ibom as one of the flagship sites for the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.

He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government in addressing the state’s housing needs and disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development had also received 50 hectares of land for its own housing initiative.

“Our civil servants are dear to us, which is why we are investing heavily in housing projects such as the Aviation City, Judicial City, Legislative, and Executive estates,” Eno said.

He assured the FHA of his administration’s support to ensure timely completion and promised to extend state security coverage to protect the project site.

The Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, implemented through the FHA and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, aims to provide sustainable, affordable homes for low- and middle-income earners across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Under the initiative, state governments provide land and infrastructure, while the FHA oversees construction and delivery — a model expected to boost employment and advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals on affordable housing and sustainable cities.

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Wike made this announcement in Abuja on Friday. He spoke during the inauguration of a committee set up to oversee the relocation process.

The minister will chair the committee himself. Members include top FCT officials such as the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council. Directors from Development Control, Urban and Regional Planning, Land, Survey, and Resettlement and Compensation are also included.

The goal is to end years of delay in relocating the traders. Currently, they operate along the Outer Southern Expressway corridor.

“Since 2011, past administrations have made promises without results,” Wike said. “But President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to make a difference. The relocation process has now officially started.”

As part of the plan, a site visit to Wassa will take place on June 27. Leaders of the Apo Mechanics will join the visit. The team will inspect the location and decide on the key infrastructure needed.

“We want to make sure all critical facilities are ready before the move,” Wike added. “This is a team effort to keep President Tinubu’s promise. We also want to provide a better place for your businesses.”

Wike urged the traders to stay united. He warned that conflicts among them could slow down progress.

“You will achieve more when you work together,” he advised. “The government’s job is to improve lives. We are committed to making this move successful for everyone.”

The FCT Administration also assured the public of a smooth process. The relocation will be fair, transparent, and timely. All stakeholders will be considered.

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