By Milcah Tanimu

Peter Obi has voiced concerns about the deteriorating performance in the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) reported a 7.69 percent drop in the number of candidates achieving credits in at least five subjects, including English and Mathematics, decreasing from 79.81 percent last year to 72.12 percent this year.

Obi attributes this decline to inadequate investment in crucial areas such as education, health, and poverty reduction. Despite a claimed literacy rate of over 50%, Nigeria ranks 187th globally in literacy, underscoring a significant lack of commitment to education. He criticized the total capital expenditure of N330.3 billion for the education sector, which he believes is insufficient given the number of schools across the country.

In his remarks, Obi commended the students, schools, and educators for their hard work and achievements despite the challenges. He reaffirmed his dedication to prioritizing education as a key component of building a better future for Nigeria.