Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, announced that the state’s education budget for 2026 exceeds the benchmarks set by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). According to a press release from the governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Anambra has allocated an impressive 46.9 percent of its total budget of ₦757 billion to education, significantly higher than UNESCO’s recommendation of 15-20 percent.
Governor Soludo’s commitment to transforming Anambra into Nigeria’s educational hub is evident in this substantial investment. The budgetary allocation reflects his goal to elevate the state’s educational standards and outcomes. Aburime highlighted, “An intentional leader like Governor Soludo can’t just stop taking the educational torchlight to new heights.”
Anambra’s educational advancements are notable when compared to other states. The latest analyses indicate that Anambra is outperforming peers such as Enugu, Kano, and Jigawa. Many other states lag far behind in adhering to global educational norms.
Significant Achievements in Education
Aburime detailed the tangible results of the Soludo administration’s educational policies, which include the recruitment of 8,115 teachers. This significant increase in teaching staff has effectively addressed the issue of schools operating without qualified educators. The governor’s free education policy has also driven an increase in enrollment across both primary and secondary schools.
The impact of these initiatives is evident. According to the press release, public secondary school enrollment has surged by 47 percent, while primary school enrollment has risen by 27 percent. These statistics position Anambra as having the lowest rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Aburime emphasized that these developments extend opportunities to families who previously regarded quality education as unattainable. “These figures are lifelines extended to families who once viewed quality education as a distant dream,” he stated.
The governor’s focus on education aims not just to meet benchmarks but to establish a model for other states in Nigeria. By prioritizing educational funding and improving access, Anambra is striving to become a knowledge-driven powerhouse, aligning with UNESCO‘s longstanding recommendations for educational expenditure.
The results of these efforts indicate a commitment to reshaping Anambra’s educational landscape, ensuring that future generations have better access to quality education. As the 2026 fiscal year approaches, the state’s ambitious goals may serve as a blueprint for educational reform across Nigeria.
