The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says that education, from pre-school to tertiary level, should not be seen as an expenditure, but as a vital investment.
Ms Christian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, made the assertion at the launching of the Institute of Social Policy in collaboration with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka on Tuesday.
According to Munduate, across the world and especially in Nigeria, education stands as one of the most impactful investments any society can make.
“What is not invested in a child today is a loss that cannot be regained tomorrow. This is why education must be seen as an investment, not an expenditure.
“It is unacceptable that so many Nigerian children remain out of school at the primary and secondary levels.
“We must act now, recognising that investing in education is not only critical for our present but essential for securing Nigeria’s future.
“As one of Africa’s largest economies, Nigeria must adopt a real transformative approach to education—one that prioritises access, quality, and inclusiveness.
“Only then can we ensure that every Nigerian child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress,” she said.
Speaking on the launching of the Institute of Social Policy, Munduate said it was a step towards building a robust group of professionals who would drive evidence-based policy planning and implementation in Nigeria.
“Through our partnership with academic institutions, we are establishing a foundation for sustainable social development that emphasises the rights of children and women,” she said.
Also speaking, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, Acting Vice-Chancellor, NAU, said the establishment of the institute signified a new committment to research and capacity building in social policy.
“The partnership with UNICEF will enable us equip and empower future leaders by providing them with essential skills and knowledge to address intricate social issues,” he said.
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra affirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising education, emphasising that continued investment in children’s education remains a top priority for the state.
Earlier in his address, Prof. Uche Nwogwugwu, Director, Institute of Social Policy, NAU, highlighted the importance of the institute in bridging the gap between academia and governance in Nigeria.
“We need professionals, political leaders, and technocrats to help re-engineer our societal structure and drive meaningful change.
“We encourage Nigerians to enroll in the institute’s programmes, which include postgraduate diploma, master’s and Ph.D. degrees.
“Our programmes are designed to be flexible, with 90 percent delivered online and 10 percent in person, making them ideal for busy executives,” he said.
