Abuja: The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) has identified inadequate political will by state and local governments as a significant obstacle to the effective delivery of adult education. Dr. John Edeh, Director of Literacy and Development at NMEC, highlighted this challenge during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Edeh, who manages the commission’s activities, emphasized that adult and non-formal education falls under the concurrent list of responsibilities shared by federal, state, and local governments. He expressed concern over the weak implementation of educational models at sub-national levels, pointing to Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution that mandates adult education at all levels, with local governments specifically tasked with its execution.
Edeh noted that the Federal Government has attempted to mitigate these challenges by providing resources for learning materials, training facilitators, and supporting literacy centers nationwide. Despite these efforts, he stressed the need for greater political commitment, particularly from state governments, to enhance the sector.
In his remarks, Edeh also mentioned the expansion of programs to ensure marginalized groups, including artisans, women, and persons with disabilities, have access to education. He acknowledged that although local governments are responsible for adult and non-formal education, significant actions have yet to be taken at that level.
He concluded by noting that the Federal Government, along with the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State, have initiated strategic measures to address some of these ongoing challenges.