Atiku Abubakar criticizes Nigerian government's ban on NECO and WAEC exams for under-18 students.

Atiku Abakuakar

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abakuakar recently made a statement that was terribly criticized by the FG of Nigeria when he condemned the exclusion of students below the age of eighteen from writing NECO and WAEC exams. As a result of this policy many have wondered its purpose and consequences on Nigeria education in the future.

Atiku, not one to mince words, took to his platform to call out the absurdity of the policy. He emphasized how it not only contradicts global education standards but also hampers the progress of young students eager to advance in their academic journey. According to him, this decision strips away opportunities from promising students, leaving them in educational limbo.
         
The Federal Government’s argument? That younger students need time to mature. However, critics, including Atiku, believe this will limit access to education and stunt academic development for high-performing minors. Instead of placing hurdles in front of eager learners, he suggested the government focus on improving the quality of education rather than setting age restrictions that seem to serve no practical purpose.

Atiku’s sentiments are echoed across various educational circles, with many concerned this could deepen existing educational inequality. As the debate heats up, one thing’s clear Nigeria’s education sector needs reform, but the path forward remains contentious.