Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised serious concerns over the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, describing the situation as alarming and a “ticking time bomb.”
Speaking at an event in Bauchi on Sunday, Obasanjo highlighted the potential dangers of having millions of children out of school, warning that it could lead to their future recruitment by extremist groups like Boko Haram or bandit gangs.
Obasanjo pointed out that about 10% of Nigeria’s population, which equates to over 20 million children, are not receiving formal education.
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He stressed that these children are vulnerable and unprepared to serve themselves or contribute to their communities, making them easy targets for extremist recruitment in the future.
“These children, not equipped to develop their innate abilities to serve themselves or their communities, are being prepared for recruitment into whatever form Boko Haram or banditry will take in the next 10 to 15 years,” Obasanjo said during the inauguration of projects carried out by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.
The former president emphasized that addressing this educational crisis is not only essential for Nigeria’s development but also for its long-term security.
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He urged leaders to prioritize education as a way to mitigate the growing threat posed by the lack of formal schooling for millions of children.
With over 20 million Nigerian children currently out of school, Obasanjo’s remarks underscore the urgent need for reforms and greater investment in the education sector to prevent future security risks.
“We are also preparing them to be recruited in 10 to 15 years’ time for whatever form of Boko Haram or banditry will exist by then,” he warned.