Atiku charges FG to act decisively to tackle challenges in education sector

From Umar Dankano, Yola

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Founder of the American University of Nigeria,(AUN) Yola has charged Federal government to harness our collective strength to act decisively for positive change in tackling numerous challenges facing us as a nation.

Abubakar threw the challenge while delivering his remarks at the AUN’s 17th annual founder’s day ceremony held at the Commencement hall of the University in Yola weekend stressing that, Nigeria has become “a land of rich diversity and boundless opportunities but stands at crucial crossroads due to formidable challenges”.

Abubakar observed with dismay that, the failure or near collapse of our education and human development services sectors as among majors contributing to the backwardness of the country despite our human and natural resources which gave us an edge among nations globally

He noted that, for us to correct the mess,
we must first acknowledge the myriad difficulties and threats that besiege the Nigerian state citing; the violence unleashed by the relentless Boko Haram religious fanatics, and the resulting pervasive security challenges that plague our nation.

“We are again contending with marauding criminal gangs and bandits who are terrorizing innocent communities, alongside bigoted separatists whose violence leaves scars on the fabric of our society.On another plank, ethnic and tribal jingoists are threatening our collective peace and creating divisions that further erode our social cohesion.

“As daunting as these divisive challenges are, however, it needs to be pointed out that, perhaps, the most insidious threat of all comes not from the visible chaos of these armed groups but from a far deeper neglect of our education, health and human development services.

“This neglect was orchestrated by the invidious machinations of white-collar criminals who sit in our public offices, dressed in elegant suits, flowing or starched traditional dresses, working in our Public/Civil Services, National Assembly, Judiciary and the Executive.

“The crass disregard for education inflicted upon us by the current as well as the successive governments since 2007, has transformed what could have been a vibrant future into a bleak landscape. While we can struggle to confront the acute threats of violence and turmoil from the armed groups, the consequences of neglecting education, health and human services do not just threaten the present – they wreak havoc on our future.

“Currently, millions of children remain out of school, and among those who do enrol, many find themselves disillusioned, trapped in an outdated paradigm that fails to prepare them for the demands of an increasingly complex and competitive world.

“The statistics are sobering; Nigeria holds the regrettable title of having the largest population of out-of-school children in the world. How is it that in a country rich in resources, cultural heritage knowledge and a myriad of talents, we find ourselves with such a dismal record? Every unattended classroom symbolizes a child with unfulfilled potential, a dream put on hold, and a talent that will remain dormant.

“It is in the face of this very ugly and harrowing picture of our future that I shudder to reflect on the Federal Government’s decision to allocate over $23 billion towards the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway ($13B) and the Badagry-Sokoto Superhighway, ($9B) while the nation is gripped by this educational crisis.

“Amidst the government’s failures to fulfil its duties, the American University of Nigeria shines as a symbol of top-tier, non-profit education. We celebrate the significant achievement of establishing AUN, a gift from the Atiku family that transcends borders to serve humanity.

“Let us rise to the occasion and reclaim our narratives. Our nation deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we can achieve this only through education, healthcare, and community engagement. Together, we shall forge a brighter future by embracing collaboration, unity, and a shared vision for excellence.

In their separate remarks the President of the University, Dr.DeWayne Fazier and the guest speaker of the Occasion, Prof.
Muhammaduou M.O Kah lauded the foresight of the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over the establishment of the development institution in the North East region of the country and Africa.

They described the American University of Nigeria Yola as a catalyst for change fuelled by real hope, clear vision, and the belief that through education, we can rewrite our destiny.

“Together, let us rise to this occasion, harness our collective potentials and work tirelessly to build a foundation that not only uplifts individuals and communities but ultimately transforms Nigeria.

“Together, we will write the next chapter of success and prosperity for Nigeria”. They maintained.