July 17, 2025
The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education Advocacy Team, led by Dr. Obia Ekpenyong Eniang-Esien, paid a courtesy visit to Senator Associate Professor Stephen Odey, Commissioner for Education, Cross River State. Dr. Eniang-Esien underscored the importance of quality education for all children, particularly those between 4 – 14 years old. He solicited the state’s support and collaboration for the pilot phase of the project aimed at reducing out-of-school children in Nigeria. The mission of the National Commission for Almajiri and out of school children education is to establish a comprehensive, inclusive, and multimodal education system that equips Almajiri and out of school children with the necessary skills for personal growth, economic empowerment, and social contribution. While fostering an environment of lifelong learning, innovation, and cultural integration in alignment with National Development Goals and Global Standards.
Mr. David Omang, the Executive Secretary’s representative, commended the Commissioner for his outstanding work in the Education sector, noting that he has always been a principal actor.
Associate Professor Odey – the Commissioner received the delegation and commended their initiative, observing that the team’s emergence followed the Governor’s recommendations. The Commissioner further detailed various efforts the Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has implemented to tackle the challenges of Out – of -School Children in the State:
- Free WAEC Registration for students to eliminate financial barriers to completing secondary education.
- No tuition fees at the basic and secondary education levels, with only minimal administrative charges.
- Engagement with rural areas where out-of-school children challenges are more prevalent.
- Recognition that the economic climate has exacerbated the issue, but the state is deploying targeted interventions to mitigate its impact.
On Academic Performance: - The state’s WAEC pass rate has improved significantly, rising from 68.7% to 72.7%.
- In the 2024 NECO national rankings, Cross River State achieved 3rd position among the 12 top States in Nigeria, a testament to the State’s educational reform efforts.
On National Collaboration: - Cross River State will be hosting the upcoming World Literacy Day, with full support and approval from the Governor, signaling the state’s commitment to literacy and global educational goals.
- Continued collaboration is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Education and all State Commissioners, with frequent strategy meetings and shared initiatives. “We are committed, ready, and working tirelessly to ensure every child in Cross River State is in school and learning,” Senator Odey stated.