out-of-school children

Nigeria

Sokoto, UNICEF step up action on out-of-school children

The Sokoto State Universal Basic Education Board has stepped up efforts to reduce the high number of out-of-school children through expanded early childhood education and major reforms, according to its Executive Chairman, Umar Tambuwal.​ Speaking at a media dialogue on educational reform for Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara, Tambuwal said education is central to the state’s future and that early childhood investment is key to reversing poor learning outcomes. He explained that the years from birth to eight are critical for brain development, cognitive growth and emotional stability, especially for disadvantaged children.​ Tambuwal warned that lack of early learning opportunities increases the risk of school dropouts and fuels the rise in out-of-school children. He said that with UNICEF support, the board assisted 160 Early Childhood Care and Education centres in 2024 and 2025 with teaching materials and caregiver training, while UNICEF […]

Abdulmumini Auwal SA February 24, 2026