Education Budget Shortfall Threatens Quality of Education in Nigeria

A recent report has highlighted a significanshortfall in Nigeria’s education budget, which could threaten the quality of education in the country. Despite allocating N3.5 trillion to the education sector in the 2025 budget, a substantial gap remains in funding teacher salaries.

The federal government allocated N1.64 trillion for personnel costs, including teachers’ salaries. However, the total sum required for teacher salaries alone is N1.93 trillion, leaving a shortfall of approximately N290 billion.

especially in public schools and rural areas
due to inadequate remuneration, impacting the quality of education
Poor literacy rates and low academic performance with Nigeria’s literacy rate quoted between 69% and 77%

Poor governance and political manipulation due to a less educated population
Social unrest and national security threats as an uneducated population may be more susceptible to radicalization
Limited critical thinking and civic participation essential for meaningful democracy

Increasing the education budget possibly through recovered misappropriated fundsStrengthening teachers’ welfare essential for the nation’s long-term development