The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to national unity, patriotism and development as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Alausa, in an Independence Day message issued in Abuja on Thursday, said education remained fundamental to human capital development, social mobility, innovation and sustainable national development.
He congratulated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey, celebrate its shared identity and strengthen the collective resolve to build a peaceful, united and prosperous country.
The minister expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support for the education sector and human capital development.
He said the administration’s Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative, NESRI, was advancing reforms and investments to expand access to education, strengthen institutions, support learners, improve teacher quality and promote technical and vocational education.
According to him, the initiative also seeks to equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Alausa, however, acknowledged that more work remained to be done, particularly in strengthening foundational learning, improving teacher development, expanding skills and technical education, promoting research and innovation, and providing safe and conducive learning environments.
He pledged to continue working with governments at all levels, teachers, parents, students, education stakeholders and development partners to build an education system that is accessible, equitable, innovative and responsive to the changing needs of society.
The minister also charged Nigerian youths to remain hopeful, disciplined and committed to excellence, stressing that their knowledge, character, creativity and skills were essential to building the country.
” You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are important participants in shaping the Nigeria of today,” he said.
Alausa called on Nigerians to uphold unity, patriotism, service and a shared sense of responsibility, noting that building the Nigeria they desire was a collective responsibility, with education serving as one of its strongest foundations.
He saluted Nigerians for their courage and resilience and wished the country continued peace, progress and prosperity.
“Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!” the minister said, while praying for God’s continued blessings upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Tinubu and all Nigerians.
