Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Edo State, Nigeria
Over the weekend, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, captivated global and business leaders, policymakers, and other participants at the LSE Africa Summit 2024 in London, United Kingdom.
His address focused on the remarkable impact of his administration’s education sector reforms over the past seven and a half years, particularly in enhancing learning outcomes, especially at the foundational level, while addressing learning poverty.
Under the theme, “African Minds Transforming Futures: Building Resilient Education Systems,” Obaseki served as a keynote speaker, delivering a compelling lecture titled, “The Future of Education in Africa: The Role of African Players in Advancing Education in Africa.”
Central to his discourse was the imperative of sustained investment in education to fully harness the potential and resourcefulness of Africa’s burgeoning youthful population. Obaseki emphasized that Africa’s youth represent a pivotal demographic in shaping the continent’s future trajectory, asserting, “By 2050, Africa will account for at least 33 percent of the global youth population, presenting both an immense opportunity and a challenge. Investing in our youth is investing in Africa’s sustainable growth and development.”
Highlighting the obstacles hindering educational progress and youth development in the region, Governor Obaseki underscored poor infrastructure, inadequate teacher training, poverty, and the digital divide as major impediments. He stressed the need for a holistic approach to education that transcends mere physical infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of nurturing curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and empowering young minds to fulfill their potential.
Sharing success stories of Edo State’s education sector reforms, Obaseki recounted the state’s transformative journey. He acknowledged the significant challenges faced upon assuming office, including rampant human trafficking and illegal migration among Edo’s youth. In response, his administration prioritized system strengthening, teacher professional development, curriculum enhancement, and community engagement to revitalize the education ecosystem.
The Governor proudly announced that Edo State now ranks among the top five education accelerators in Africa, attributing this achievement to the radical reforms implemented under his leadership. He emphasized the pivotal role of technology in driving educational innovation and efficiency, citing initiatives such as the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) program, which leverages technology to tackle learning poverty.
Acknowledging Governor Obaseki’s visionary leadership, organizers of the LSE Africa Summit commended his commitment to redefining governance in Nigeria. They lauded his pioneering use of technology in government operations, including the adoption of e-Governance to streamline administrative processes and promote transparency.
Obaseki’s innovative policies, such as the Edo State Oil Palm Programme and the establishment of The Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, reflect his unwavering dedication to fostering economic growth and diversification through strategic partnerships and investment promotion.
Governor Godwin Obaseki’s stellar performance at the LSE Africa Summit 2024 underscores his pivotal role as a catalyst for transformative change in Edo State and beyond. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to education and sustainable development position him as a beacon of hope for Africa’s future prosperity.
