Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, announced that the state’s education budget for 2026 exceeds the recommendations set by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The governor’s office reported that a substantial 46.9 percent of Anambra’s total ₦757 billion budget will be allocated to education, significantly higher than UNESCO’s guideline of 15 to 20 percent of total public expenditure.
This ambitious commitment is part of Soludo’s vision to establish Anambra as Nigeria’s education hub. In a statement issued by the governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, he emphasized Soludo’s determination to elevate the state’s educational standards. “An intentional leader like Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo can’t just stop taking the educational torchlight to new heights,” Aburime remarked.
The analysis of educational funding across Nigeria indicates that Anambra is leading the way, outperforming states like Enugu, Kano, and Jigawa. Aburime highlighted that this investment is aligned with UNESCO’s recommendations, which advocate for a minimum of four to six percent of GDP to be dedicated to education.
Transformative Investments in Education
The Soludo administration has made substantial strides in improving the educational landscape in Anambra. Since taking office, the government has recruited 8,115 teachers, effectively addressing the issue of inadequate staffing in schools. This initiative has contributed to a significant increase in school enrollment at both primary and secondary levels, driven by a policy of free education.
“The results today speak volumes,” Aburime stated, noting that public secondary school enrollment has surged by 47 percent, while primary schools have experienced a 27 percent increase. This progress has positioned Anambra as having the lowest rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
The implementation of a comprehensive free public education policy, which includes kindergarten through senior secondary school, ensures that children in Anambra are not hindered by financial barriers. Aburime underscored that these changes are pivotal for families who previously viewed quality education as an unattainable goal.
A Vision for the Future
Governor Soludo’s vision extends beyond immediate educational access; it aims to transform Anambra into a knowledge-driven powerhouse. The investment in education is not only a financial commitment but also a strategic initiative to foster a skilled workforce for the future.
Aburime’s comments reflect a broader aspiration for Anambra to become a model for educational excellence in Nigeria. As the state continues to surpass educational benchmarks, the government remains focused on ensuring that each child has the opportunity to succeed without the burden of fees or hidden charges impeding their path.
In conclusion, Anambra’s commitment to education under Governor Soludo’s leadership not only reinforces the state’s dedication to educational reform but also aligns with global standards set forth by UNESCO. The significant budget allocation serves as a testament to the administration’s resolve to provide quality education for all children in the state.
