Federal Government Seeks Collaboration For Financing Education

The Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, has emphasized that the federal government cannot bear the sole responsibility of financing education in Nigeria. 

He conveyed this message during an event in Abuja, which honoured Dr. Emeka Offor and his wife, Dr. Adaora Offor, with honorary degrees in business administration and social advocacy from the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, respectively.

Prof Mamman acknowledged the significant expenditure by the government on education but highlighted the crucial role of private individuals and philanthropists in supporting the sector. 

He praised the Offors for their philanthropic contributions through their foundation and encouraged others to follow their example.

"The ministry is encouraged with this kind of recognition because the government cannot finance education alone; just as it has contributed a lot. That is why people like Emeka Offor and his wife have stepped in, and what they are doing should be encouraged by others. I believe this is an excellent example of well-used resources, and I urge others to take a cue from what they have done," he said.

During the event, UNN received N100 million to support research activities and scholarly enterprise within the Faculty of Business Administration. NAU was granted N50 million to aid the welfare of widows, children with special needs, and other vulnerable members of society.

Chief Offor, the donor and celebrant, emphasized that the endowment fund would be restricted, ensuring the principal sum remains intact unless decided otherwise by the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) and the universities. 

"This gesture is our desire towards supporting higher education in Nigeria and strengthening the bond of friendship between SEOF and UNN/NAU," Chief Offor stated.

The Minister's call for collaborative efforts in financing education underscores the importance of collective responsibility in enhancing the quality and accessibility of education in Nigeria.