CNYAN Urges Increased Education Funding to Tackle Rising Number of Out-of-School Children in Northern Nigeria

The Council of Northern Youth Advocates of Nigeria (CNYAN) has urged the Federal and State Governments to increase budgetary allocations to education in Northern Nigeria as part of efforts to reduce the growing number of out-of-school children in the region.

The call was made by the President of CNYAN, Hon. Muhammed, during the presentation of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Platinum Award to the Chief Executive Officer of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor. The award recognised Ilobanafor’s outstanding contributions to national unity, youth empowerment, and his role as the Garkuwan Matasan Arewa (Defender of Northern Youths).

Hon. Muhammed stressed the urgent need for strategic investment in education, noting that proper funding could help lift millions of children off the streets and provide them with meaningful opportunities for self-reliance and national development.

“We have urged the government to invest more in education and find sustainable ways to take these children off the streets. They need to be educated and enlightened so they can contribute positively to society,” he said.

He lauded Ilobanafor for his consistent advocacy for youth empowerment and national cohesion, describing him as a “beacon of hope and a blessing to this generation.”

“Having gone through your track record, we are convinced that your life is a blessing to this generation and generations yet unborn. The sky will not be your limit; we are ready to work and partner with you,” Muhammed added.

The CNYAN president noted that Ilobanafor’s nomination followed a rigorous selection process, affirming his dedication to peacebuilding and youth advancement.

“At a time when national unity and integration are vital, this recognition underscores his commitment to building bridges of harmony and togetherness for a stronger Nigeria,” he said.

The award inscription read: “In appreciation of your immense contribution towards a united, indivisible Nigeria; being a vanguard of youth emancipation and a bridge of national unity.”

In his acceptance speech, Prince Ilobanafor expressed profound gratitude to CNYAN, commending the Northern youths for their patriotism and foresight.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the youths of Northern Nigeria — the future leaders of our nation,” he said.

He also highlighted his ongoing War Against Malaria Initiative in collaboration with Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, which has committed ₦1 billion to the Geneith Health Competition. The initiative aims to empower students across secondary and tertiary institutions with knowledge about malaria prevention.

“Nigerian youths are our greatest asset,” Ilobanafor declared, while calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise youth development. “If given the opportunity, our youths can transform Nigeria into a better and greater nation.”

Ilobanafor reaffirmed his commitment to promoting African excellence through CEOAFRICA, pledging continued collaboration with CNYAN to advance education, health, and youth empowerment initiatives across the country.