Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised alarms about the increasing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, describing it as a significant future security threat.
Speaking in Bauchi during the commissioning of various projects by Governor Bala Mohammed, he emphasized that over 20 million children are currently out of school, making them vulnerable to recruitment by groups like Boko Haram and bandits in the next 10 to 15 years.
Obasanjo pointed out that this demographic represents about 10% of Nigeria’s population, which stands at roughly 230 million.
He stressed the importance of investing in education and human capacity building to prevent these children from being exploited.
He stated, “If we do not equip these children to develop their abilities, we are effectively preparing them for future recruitment into Boko Haram or other forms of banditry.”
Obasanjo’s remarks underscore the urgent need for educational reforms to address this growing crisis and secure the nation’s future.
More updates to follow.
