The Hon. Minister of Education, Director, Bring it on Africa.
Distinguished Judges, The Principals and Teachers present, Members of the fourth estate of the realm Dear Students, our young champions, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great delight that I stand before you today at this Nationwide Inter-Secondary School Debate Competition, an event that celebrates excellence, intellectual courage, and the power of youthful voices. I am particularly proud because education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming any society, and you, the students seated here today. represent the future of our beloved Nigeria.
Education is the backbone of national development. A nation that invests in its children; invests in its future. As a legislator representing the hardworking people of Amac/Bwari Federal Constituency, I understand deeply that the path to prosperity, innovation, and peace begins in our classrooms. This is why the National Assembly, particularly the House of Representatives has a critical role to play in shaping, strengthening, and sustaining quality education across the country.
The first and most important role of the legislature is lawmaking. Through robust education laws, the National Assembly sets national standards for access, equity, quality, and accountability in the education sector. We pass legislation that addresses issues such as:
Universal basic education.
ン Child rights and compulsory schooling.
Teacher training and qualification standards.
Curriculum reforms.
A Regulation of public and private schools.
Without strong laws, no education system can stand. It is through these laws that we ensure every Nigerian child regardless of background, has the right to quality learning.
Beyond passing laws, the legislature plays a crucial role in education financing. Each year, the National Assembly debates, amends, and approves the national budget. We advocate for increased funding for.
School infrastructure.
Teacher recruitment and welfare.
Learning materials and digital tools.
Research institutions and innovation hubs.
Scholarships and intervention programmes.
As your representative in the National Assembly, I have made education a central pillar of my constituency service. We have supported schools through:
Renovation of learning facilities.
Provision of chairs, desks, and instructional materials.
Scholarship support for indigent students.
Skill development programmes for youths.
Community engagement and educational empowerment initiatives.
These interventions are aligned with the broader national vision for education and demonstrate how legislators can make direct, meaningful impact.
In today’s world, education must move beyond chalkboards and textbooks. Legislators must support policies that promote digital education, ICT training, and access to technology for all students.
Nigeria cannot compete globally if our children are left behind technologically. This is why we are advocating for ICT-driven classrooms, digital libraries, and STEM-focused initiatives especially in public schools.
Every child deserves a safe learning environment where their dreams can flourish.
Dear students, as you debate today, remember that the future of Nigeria’s democracy. economy, and national identity rests on your shoulders. You are the next generation of lawmakers, engineers, doctors, journalists, innovators, and leaders. You must think boldly. speak confidently, and dream without limits.
The legislature will continue to support policies that strengthen education, empower young people, and create opportunities for you to thrive.
Let me assure you that as long as I represent the good people of Amac/Bwari Federal Constituency, I will remain committed to championing quality education, because an educated child is a liberated nation.
To the competitors today: Debate with intelligence, Debate with passion, Debate with respect, and most importantly, believe in the power of your voice.
Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
