Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate, has expressed concern over the recent decline in performance of Nigerian students in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). According to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), there was a 7.69% decrease in the number of candidates who obtained credits in five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.
Obi described the decline as a stark reminder of Nigeria’s insufficient investment in critical areas such as education, health, and poverty alleviation. He noted that despite claims of a literacy rate over 50%, Nigeria ranks 187th globally in literacy. Obi criticized the allocation of funds to the education sector, stating that the total capital expenditure for the entire education sector is grossly inadequate for a country with over 81,000 primary schools and 23,000 secondary schools.
Drawing from his experience as Governor of Anambra State, Obi referenced the improvements made in the state’s educational system under his administration. He congratulated students who achieved impressive results in the 2024 WASSCE and acknowledged the vital contributions of schools, management, staff, and teachers to educational growth and development.
Obi’s statement emphasizes the need for increased investment in education to address Nigeria’s declining educational performance. He urges immediate attention and action to address this critical issue, highlighting the importance of education in transforming society.
