Stakeholders seek leadership, educational reforms

Stakeholders have emphasised the urgent need for educational reforms and human resource development in Nigeria.

They stated this at the launching of two books titled: “Leadership and Educational Reforms in Nigeria” and “A Festschrift in Honour: Rethinking Human Resource Development”, by Dr Bulus Truang Danmagaji, coinciding with his 70th birthday celebration in Abuja.

Philip Hayab, a research fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, underscored the pivotal role of education, evoking Nelson Mandela’s famous words: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Hayab highlighted the books’ exploration of not only the philosophical aspects of leadership, but also the pressing need for educational reforms and human resource development in Nigeria.

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He pointed out the country’s slow pace of development and advocated a comprehensive approach to address the challenges.

Emphasising effective leadership as a catalyst for driving educational reforms and fostering human resource development, Hayab discussed the disparity between Nigeria’s educational curriculum and the practical skills demanded by the workforce and the necessity to bridge the gap.

He noted that the books shed light on the detrimental effects of past policies and corruption on Nigeria’s education and human resource sectors and urged concerted efforts to dismantle the obstacles and pave the way for a brighter future.

He concluded that, “Leadership and Educational Reforms in Nigeria” and “Rethinking Human Resource Development in Nigeria” serve as a clarion call for stakeholders to take decisive actions in propelling Nigeria towards sustainable development and prosperity.”

Senator Sunday Marshall Katung (Kaduna South) also emphasised the need for reforms in Nigeria’s education system to improve leadership quality and foster growth.

A former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sarah Alade, emphasised the importance of capital development for progress, stressing the crucial role of education in all aspects of life.

She advocated increased investment in education to ensure universal access for all children.

Dr Danmagaji, the author of the books, reiterated that education was the foundation of all endeavours.

He highlighted the need for visionary leadership committed to education to ensure a brighter future for Nigerian children.