Abuja: The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing functional literacy skills to 300,000 youths and adults across the country. The program, known as the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative, was introduced in Abuja as part of efforts to combat adult illiteracy and equip individuals with essential vocational and life skills.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative was unveiled by NMEC Executive Secretary, Prof. Garba Maitasfir, during an event where he highlighted the importance of this program in addressing the challenges of economic inclusion, national development, and social equity caused by widespread illiteracy. Represented by Mr. John Edeh, Director of Literacy and Development, Maitasfir emphasized that the program aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The initiative is set to begin in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its surrounding areas before expanding nationwide. It aims to establish and manage literacy centers in underserved communities, with staff members actively participating as facilitators. Maitasfir stressed the urgent need to move beyond traditional methods to achieve the ambitious goal of reaching 300,000 individuals with literacy skills.
The program integrates literacy education with digital, financial, and health knowledge, alongside vocational training. Key components of the initiative include advocacy efforts, the establishment of literacy and vocational centers, provision of learning materials, and training of facilitators. Maitasfir called on staff residing in underserved areas to engage actively in the program, highlighting the significance of their role in its success.
During the event, Mrs. Favour Edem-Nse, Director of the FCT Department of Mass Education, represented by Mr. Ben Ezumah, expressed concerns over the high rate of adult illiteracy in Nigeria, noting that over 31 per cent of adults remain functionally illiterate. She advocated for increased manpower and resources to bolster literacy programs within communities.
Mr. Emmanuel Noah, National President of the Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services, praised NMEC’s leadership for the initiative. He underscored the necessity of strong collaboration and grassroots engagement to ensure the program’s success and reiterated the association’s commitment to partnering with NMEC to foster a culture of literacy nationwide.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reports that the Federal Executive Council recently reinstated NMEC to its full status, following a previous downgrade, further empowering the commission to fulfill its mandate effectively.