In a significant address to private school owners, a leading academic has called on the Nigerian government to implement major reforms aimed at relieving the immense pressure on the country's education sector.
Key Recommendations for Government Action
Professor Muritala Awodun, the TETFund Professor of Business and Entrepreneurship, delivered a powerful appeal during the 18th Annual National Conference of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS). The event was held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on 3 December 2025.
He presented a three-point plan for federal authorities. First, he urged a strengthening of the oversight mechanisms of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). Second, he advocated for the stabilisation of the nation's often unpredictable tax policies. Third, and crucially for school administrators, he called for a reduction in taxes imposed on essential educational materials.
Addressing the Private School Paradox
Professor Awodun highlighted a critical imbalance in the system. He noted that while private schools contribute significantly to educating the nation's youth and bear a heavy portion of the educational burden, they see little direct benefit from the Education Tax collected by TETFund.
"The Education Tax Funds were utilised predominantly for public institutions," he stated, "leaving private schools with no direct benefits despite their significant role." He commended private school proprietors for their resilience, accountability, and innovation in bridging the gap created by declining quality in public education, thus sustaining Nigeria's overall learning ecosystem.
Navigating Economic Uncertainties
In his lecture titled “Tax Policy, Economic Uncertainties and School Administration in Nigeria,” the professor outlined the severe challenges facing school administrators. These include intense struggles with budgeting, adopting new technology, meeting regulatory demands, and maintaining high educational standards amidst Nigeria's volatile economic climate.
To help schools survive and thrive, Professor Awodun offered practical advice:
- Diversify income streams to reduce financial vulnerability.
- Strengthen internal financial planning and management systems.
- Invest in staff development through strategic partnerships.
- Adopt technology that boosts operational efficiency and ensures long-term sustainability.
In a remarkable demonstration of his commitment, Professor Awodun was honoured with a Meritorious Service Award by NAPPS at the conference. He further donated 1,000 copies of his book, “Entrepreneurship for Secondary Schools: Not Just Schooling but Learning,” to school owners present. The books are valued at N5,000 per copy, representing a substantial contribution to supporting entrepreneurial education in private institutions across Nigeria.
