By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo

The Nigerian government has been urged to engage competent professionals and provide adequate motivation to address the lingering issues affecting the quality of education in the country, emphasising that no nation can neglect its educational institutions and expect to thrive.

A seasoned journalist and Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr Martins Oloja, made this assertion during the 11th lecture of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, titled “Can Universities Trigger National Development Amid Economic Challenges?”

Oloja stressed that Nigeria cannot enhance its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) without prioritising education and creating a conducive business environment. He argued that quality education and a robust economic landscape are fundamental drivers of economic growth, improved productivity, and better living standards, all of which contribute to global competitiveness.

“The fight to restore the lost glory of higher education in Nigeria must be approached holistically,” he stated. “To improve standards and global relevance, the country must first invest in the training and welfare of educators, ensuring their ‘psychological satisfaction.’ Excellence should be recognised and rewarded, as poor working conditions discourage talented youths from pursuing careers in teaching.”

He further noted that adequate funding for schools, alongside a conducive teaching and learning environment, would significantly impact the education sector. “Nigeria cannot compete in the emerging global economy with its current poor educational standards,” he added.

Oloja called for increased government investment in primary and secondary education, describing them as the foundation of higher learning. He insisted that university admissions should be strictly based on merit while institutions should offer relevant courses tailored to the demands of the 21st-century economy.

He also advocated full autonomy for higher institutions, allowing them to explore private sector partnerships to generate funds. According to him, education plays a critical role in driving economic growth, fostering socio-political stability, and improving human development indices.

“I commend the foresight of former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, who in 2014 recognised the strategic importance of establishing this specialised university,” Oloja remarked.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of UNIMED, Prof. Adesegun Olayiwola Fatusi, highlighted the significance of the lecture, noting that it would be his last as the university’s Vice-Chancellor.

Prof. Fatusi reaffirmed that human capital development remains a crucial factor in economic growth, with education serving as the primary means of nurturing this capital.

“Higher education operates as a production chain that generates qualified human resources, forming the foundation for innovation, national development, and the advancement of human knowledge,” he stated.