The Federal Government of Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have unveiled a €40 million Education and Youth Empowerment Initiative (IPINC) aimed at transforming learning and youth development in Northwest Nigeria.
According to the Ministry of Education, the launch in Abuja marks a major step under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Education Sector Renewal Initiative. Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, Dr. Ejeh Usman said the project seeks to ensure all children have fair access to quality education.
The Ministry of Budget and National Planning added that the €40 million will act as seed funding to draw private investment, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy and Nigeria’s National Development Plan.
Dr. (Mrs.) Folake Davies Olatunji, Director of Basic Education, explained that the programme will target foundational learning, teacher development, digital literacy, and inclusive education. EU Programme Manager, Ms. Kate Kanebi, stated, “This fund will promote safe learning spaces, vocational skills, and non-formal education, particularly for girls and marginalized learners.”
The launch was attended by officials from UBEC, TRCN, UNESCO, UNICEF, Plan International, Save the Children, and the World Bank. The event concluded with a pledge from all parties to expand access to quality education across the country.
