Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reported a significant increase in school enrollment following the introduction of free education at the primary and secondary levels in January 2025.
Speaking during a visit by officials from the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) last week, Governor Otti emphasized that the policy has been highly effective, eliminating the need for enforcement measures initially considered by his administration.
“The surge in school enrollment has exceeded our expectations,” Governor Otti stated. “At the outset, we anticipated the need for strict enforcement and had declared that any school-age child found hawking during school hours would be taken into custody, with their parents held accountable. However, what we have observed is a widespread eagerness to attend school, leaving no one to arrest.”
NATIONAL CONCORD recalls Abia State government had announced the free education initiative last year, making primary and junior secondary schooling compulsory and reinforcing its commitment to improving literacy and educational access.
Commending the initiative, Nnaemeka Okafor, Director of Regional Advocacy at NELFUND, praised Governor Otti’s dedication to education and other developmental sectors, acknowledging the positive impact of his administration’s policies.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?