₦97bn Left to Rot as Millions of Nigerian Children Are Locked Out of Classrooms, Femi Falana Raises Alarm
Nigeria — Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has raised fresh concerns over the denial of basic education to millions of Nigerian children, warning that systemic failures by state governments are undermining children’s right to development.
In a statement, Falana said despite existing legal frameworks such as the Child’s Rights Act and the Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act, access to free and compulsory education remains out of reach for many children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
He revealed that over ₦97 billion allocated through the Universal Basic Education Commission remains unaccessed as of March 2026. According to him, several state governments and the Federal Capital Territory have failed to meet the requirement of providing a 50 percent counterpart fund needed to unlock the federal allocation.
Falana noted that this funding gap has far-reaching implications for children’s development, as education remains a critical tool for personal growth, social mobility, and economic participation. The failure to access and utilize these funds, he said, effectively denies children their legally guaranteed right to basic education.
He further alleged that even in cases where funds are accessed, there are concerns about mismanagement, with resources not being properly channeled toward improving school infrastructure and learning conditions.
The senior advocate also pointed to the alarming figure of nearly 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, one of the highest globally, describing it as evidence of a widening gap between policy and implementation. He referenced rulings by the ECOWAS Court of Justice and Nigerian courts, which have consistently affirmed the right of every child to free education.
Falana blamed what he described as the neglect by the ruling class for the persistent crisis, warning that continued inaction could further entrench inequality and limit opportunities for millions of children.
He disclosed that a formal request has been submitted to UBEC to obtain detailed information on compliance levels by state governments, as stakeholders intensify calls for accountability and urgent reforms in the education sector.
