President Muhammadu Buhari has said that his government has spent over N1.3 trillion in its first term of four years on education sector.
The President, who spoke today, August 22 at the commissioning of the Post Graduate Centre of Excellence at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State, said that he will pay greater attention to the sector in his second term because of its key importance to the overall development of the country.
Buhari, who commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its foresignt in putting up such structure, expressed concern over the state of facilities in Nigerian universities, due to long years of perennial funding challenges, the President promised that his administration would continue to place premium on education at all levels.
He vowed that his government will not rest until it delivers on its commitments on quality education, including investing more resources in the sector and providing a conducive learning environment in the academia.
‘‘It is no longer a secret that the state of facilities in our universities and other institutions of higher learning has not kept pace with the requirements of the ever-growing population of students and other stakeholders or with modern methods of learning.
‘‘This has largely been due to the perennial funding challenge over the years. As an administration, we are committed and determined to continue to fund our vital institutions, even in the face of limited financial resources.
‘‘Let me reiterate here that this administration places much premium on education at all levels, as it is the bedrock of society’s progress, and the way to overcome poverty,’’ he said.
The President expressed confidence that efforts at improving access to quality education in tertiary institutions will enable young Nigerians to make meaningful contributions towards the nation’s development.
‘‘The wealth of nations today is being shaped by investment in education rather than emphasis on mineral resources.
‘‘Investment in education is a critical factor in driving innovation, technological advancements and employment opportunities in advanced economies.”
Source: NAN.
