NMEC Targets 300,000 Nigerians In New Literacy Drive

The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at equipping 300,000 youths and adults across the country with functional literacy skills.

The programme, known as the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative, was launched on Tuesday in Abuja as part of efforts to combat adult illiteracy while promoting vocational and life skills.

Speaking at the event, NMEC executive secretary, Garba Maitasfir, said the initiative would see staff members establish and manage literacy centres in underserved communities. He noted that the programme aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and serves as a call to action against illiteracy.

Represented by the director of education and development, John Edeh, Maitasfir explained that the initiative is designed to address barriers to economic inclusion, national development, and social equity caused by widespread illiteracy.

He added that implementation would begin in the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding areas before expanding nationwide. According to him, staff volunteers would serve as facilitators in community centres, markets, workplaces, and religious institutions.

The programme will integrate basic literacy with digital, financial, and health education, alongside vocational training. Key components include advocacy, establishment of literacy and vocational centres, provision of learning materials, and training of facilitators.

Maitasfir urged staff residing in underserved communities to actively support the initiative to ensure its success.

Also speaking, FCT director of mass education, Favour Edem-Nse, lamented the high rate of adult illiteracy, noting that over 31 per cent of adults remain functionally illiterate. Represented by Ben Ezumah, she called for increased manpower and resources to strengthen literacy programmes nationwide.

In his remarks, the national president of the Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services, Emmanuel Noah, commended NMEC for the initiative and stressed the importance of collaboration and grassroots engagement.

He reaffirmed the association’s readiness to partner with NMEC in promoting literacy as a national culture.

Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council recently restored NMEC to its full status after it was previously downgraded.