NIGERIA: Peter Obi Urges Urgent Action On Education Crisis, Says Nigeria Has ‘24 Million Reasons To Fear’

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has reiterated the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize education, warning that the nation’s growing population of out-of-school children poses a grave threat to its future.

Obi made the remarks on Friday evening, October 4, while addressing members of the Nigeria Friendship Association in Washington D.C., United States.

The association, which was formed nearly three decades ago by Nigerian students in the U.S., now comprises accomplished professionals living across Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and beyond.

In his address, Obi commended the group for its long-standing commitment to supporting education both in Nigeria and abroad.

He described their continued dedication to learning and human capital development as “a beacon of hope” at a time when the country faces an unprecedented education crisis.

“Education remains the most vital investment any nation can make in its future. With over 24 million out-of-school children, the highest number in the world, Nigeria has over 24 million reasons to fear what lies ahead if we fail to act,” Obi said.

He stressed that no nation can rise above the quality of its human capital, emphasizing that education is the foundation for sustainable national development.

The former Anambra State governor also underscored the need for Nigeria to embrace educational reforms that align with global technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is reshaping industries and employment.

“In a time when AI is transforming the world of work and innovation, education is no longer optional—it is essential for daily life. We must equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to compete globally, not just to survive but to lead,” he stated.

Obi hailed the Nigeria Friendship Association’s initiatives as a reflection of the kind of collective effort needed to revive Nigeria’s education sector.

He expressed optimism that through shared responsibility, compassion, and sustained investment in learning, a better Nigeria can emerge.

“A New Nigeria is possible,” he concluded.