The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern that millions of children in Northern Nigeria remain out of school, with girls facing greater disadvantages due to entrenched cultural, economic and social barriers that hinder school completion.
The Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Kano, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, disclosed this in a keynote address at the 2026 International Day of Education (IDE) commemoration held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.
Farah identified poverty, insecurity, harmful social norms and limited educational resources as major factors weakening learning outcomes and eroding the aspirations of children across the region.
The event, which drew stakeholders from UNICEF-supported states including Kano, Katsina and Jigawa, was held under the theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.” UNICEF stressed the need to place young people at the centre of discussions on shaping the future of education by 2030.
While acknowledging progress recorded in some parts of Northern Nigeria, Farah urged youths to take a leading role in transforming the country’s education system, describing education as a fundamental right, a source of hope and the foundation of sustainable national development.
Addressing government officials, development partners, educators, parents, media practitioners and youths, Farah said education remains the strongest weapon for breaking cycles of hardship and building a future where every child can thrive with dignity.
“Education is not just a service; it is a right, a beacon of hope and the foundation of every strong society,” he said. “It is what gives every child—girl or boy the freedom to dream, to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to walk with pride.”
According to him, young people are demanding an education system that is relevant, inclusive, safe and empowering one that inspires creativity, motivates learning and leaves no child behind.
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“They want classrooms that ignite imagination, teachers who inspire, and systems that catch every child,” Farah noted.
“Education must go beyond textbooks to equip children with life skills, digital competence, critical thinking and the confidence to shape their own future.”
He added that the International Day of Education should not only be a moment of reflection, but a call to renewed commitment and collective action.
“At UNICEF, we remain firmly committed to supporting governments and communities in Kano Field Office states to strengthen education systems, improve learning environments, promote adolescent development and ensure access to quality education for every child,” he said.
Farah emphasised that investing in education yields far-reaching dividends, noting that educating a child uplifts a family, educating a girl strengthens a community, and sustained investment in education lays the foundation for peace and sustainable development.
He also commended development partners, community and traditional leaders, teachers, civil society organisations and youths driving initiatives such as the Youth-Led Education Lab.
“Your voices matter. Your ideas matter,” he told the youths. “You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are partners today, shaping history.”
The Nation
