Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on Nigeria to prioritise education, describing it as the key to unlocking the country’s immense potential and achieving sustainable socio-economic development.
Abubakar, who stated this in Abuja yesterday, at the Graduation and Prize-Giving Day of Pacesetters’ School, Abuja, stressed that adequate funding and a curriculum that promotes entrepreneurship are critical to achieving meaningful progress in the sector.
He said an educated population is essential for national unity, peace, and growth, as it is less susceptible to manipulation by divisive forces.
He also stated the transformative role education played in his life, making him who he is today.
“I’d like to congratulate my friend, Barr. Kenneth Imansuangbon, for investing in human development. There’s no better investment than education; it empowers individuals to become engineers, doctors, or any other professionals of their choice.
“I commend the noble vision of Pacesetters’ Schools and challenge them to expand their impact by establishing a university.
“I also congratulate the graduating students and am delighted to see some of my former students among them. I thank the Chairman for inviting me to this historic event, which aligns perfectly with my lifelong passion for education. Even in retirement, I look forward to returning to university,” he added.
Reflecting on his formative years, Abubakar compared the U.S. Peace Corps to Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
He recalled how, in 1961, American Peace Corps teachers filled the gap left by departing British educators at his secondary school in Northern Nigeria.
He said that experience profoundly impacted his education and later inspired him to adopt an American-style curriculum in the schools he established.
In his remarks, Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon, Chairman of Pacesetters’ Schools, emphasised education’s vital role in shaping individuals and society.
He said the school is focused on raising independent-minded students who can create opportunities for themselves rather than waiting for white-collar jobs.
Imansuangbon noted that Pacesetters’ goal is not only to educate but also to refine and equip students with the skills and mindset to impact their communities positively and beyond.
Among the dignitaries at the event were Senator Augustine Akobundu, who represents Abia Central in the National Assembly; Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, wife of the Zamfara State Governor; and former Labour Party National Chairman Dan Nwanyanwu.
The event also featured a special award presented to Mrs. Elizabeth Imansuangbon, mother of the school’s chairman, in recognition of her support and legacy.
