The Federal Government says more than one million out-of-school children have returned to the classroom over the past 20 months as part of ongoing efforts to improve access to basic education.
Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, disclosed the figure in Abuja during a meeting with the newly appointed UNESCO Country Representative to Nigeria, Prof Isaiah Barreto Da Rosa.
Alausa said the development formed part of the government’s wider education reform programme aimed at improving access, quality and learning outcomes.
The minister said the government was working with relevant partners to address some of the challenges responsible for keeping children outside the formal education system.
The meeting with the UNESCO representative focused on strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and the international organisation in areas including education reform and access.
Reports confirming the minister’s disclosure said more than one million children had returned to school during the 20-month period.
Nigeria continues to face a major out-of-school children challenge, with poverty, insecurity, displacement and limited access to schools among the factors contributing to the problem.
The government has therefore placed increased emphasis on bringing children back into formal education while improving school safety and learning conditions.
Alausa said continued collaboration with international partners would be important to sustaining the gains and addressing remaining gaps.
UNESCO has also continued to support education initiatives in Nigeria, particularly in areas involving access, quality and institutional development.
The government said its objective is not only to enrol more children but also to ensure that they remain in school and receive quality education.