Roadmap to a New Nigeria That Is Possible – Part II
Education and Healthcare: The Foundation of a Renewed Nigeria
Recall that on July 1st, in Part 1 of "My Vision for a Productive and Prosperous Nigeria," I outlined the broad framework of my proposed roadmap for national renewal. In it, I emphasised that the transformation of Nigeria must begin with rebuilding our human capital through quality education and healthcare, supported by reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), character and civic education, and strategic investments that will move our nation from a consumption-driven economy to a production-driven one. I promised to follow up with other parts in the coming weeks and months.
Today, July 16th, in the middle of July, I wish to expand on these two critical pillars - education and healthcare - because they are the bedrock upon which every prosperous nation is built. They are the cornerstones of the foundation that will ensure that a son of nobody can become somebody and remove many from the ranks of the disaffected who often become tools in the insecurity challenges confronting us.
Evidence from around the world shows that quality education and accessible healthcare are among the clearest distinctions between thriving nations and lagging ones. Princeton University Nobel Prize-winning economist Angus Deaton highlights this reality in his book, “The Great Escape: Health, Wealth, and the Origins of Inequality.”
Nothing, therefore, could be further from the truth than the claim by some young people that “education is a scam.” Education, when combined with good health, provides the ladder for individual upward mobility and drives economic growth for the nation.
We must become more intentional about aligning education with our national priorities, as Singapore did, and challenge our country to value education in the same way Deng Xiaoping repeatedly urged China to do from 1978 onwards, with the remarkable transformation we see today.
We will work through commissions that strengthen collaboration among the tiers of government, ensuring that primary education is domiciled at the community and local government levels, with strong parental involvement and curricula that are sensitive to local economic factor endowments and the value chains derived from them.
State governments will be supported to expand high-quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as general secondary education, through targeted grants and incentives.
We are also developing schemes that will enable universities to focus more deliberately on specialised areas of teaching and research, making them globally competitive while producing a workforce equipped for the demands of the future.
A NEW Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Nigeria in Focus at the ECFR Berlin Roundtable.
Yesterday, at the invitation of the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), I had the honour of participating in a high-level roundtable discussion titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” held at the ECFR office in Berlin, Germany.
The dialogue brought together policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations, and members of the international media to discuss Nigeria’s future and its role in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.
Our discussions centred on Nigeria’s democratic journey beyond 2027, international affairs, development cooperation, and the need to strengthen bilateral partnerships that can accelerate economic growth and improve the lives of our people. A key focus of the engagement was how Nigeria can deepen collaboration with international partners to support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), recognising that they remain the backbone of every productive economy and are indispensable to job creation, innovation, wealth creation, and sustainable national development.
We also exchanged views on strengthening democratic institutions, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting regional stability, improving governance, and creating an enabling environment that inspires confidence among citizens, investors, and Nigeria’s international partners.
I was encouraged by the thoughtful contributions and genuine interest demonstrated by participants in Nigeria’s future. The presence of senior representatives from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, foundations, international organisations, and respected global media organisations underscores the strategic importance of Nigeria and the shared desire to see our nation realise its enormous potential.
During the discussions, I reiterated my unwavering belief that Nigeria possesses all the human and natural resources required to become a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive nation. What is required is competent, accountable, and compassionate leadership that prioritises investment in people, education, healthcare, productive enterprise, the rule of law, and strong institutions over politics of consumption.
Nigeria’s future is bright, but only if we make the deliberate choices that will move our country from consumption to production, from poverty to prosperity, and from division to unity. By embracing good governance, fiscal responsibility, and productive partnerships with the international community, we can build an economy that works for all Nigerians and restores our nation’s standing among the comity of nations.
I sincerely thank the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation and all participants for a frank, engaging, and constructive exchange of ideas. Conversations such as these remain vital in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening international cooperation, and building enduring partnerships for the benefit of Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
A New Nigeria Is POssible. - PO
I just learned that under Ghana’s Free Senior High School policy, the government pays the WASSCE registration fees for every student in public schools.
Then I looked at Nigeria, where WAEC and NECO fees have just increased.
I’m struggling to understand the logic.
Nigeria has one of the largest populations of out-of-school children in the world.
Thousands of children drop out every year because their families simply cannot keep up with the cost of education.
Education is under attack in Nigeria and we have to fight back.
Actually this is a “class action” I can get behind on my own dime. I’ll have a team do some preliminary research and if we decide to pursue, I’ll give an update. We need more public interest litigation.
This is to announce that a Toyota sedan vehicle was stolen in Iyana Ipaja Area of Lagos State on Sunday 06/07/26 by the man in the picture above.*
*Vehicle Description:*
- Make & Model: Toyota Camry 2005
- Registration Number: BDG 388 JE
- Chassis Number (VIN): JTDBU4EE7B9124560
- Engine Number: 2AZ1652450
- Colour: Gold
- License Type: Private
*Anyone with any useful information regarding the whereabouts of this vehicle or the thief in the picture should please contact the nearest police station or the owner on +2348033032562, +2348033126416. Thank you.*
We captured this beautiful moment of Chimdiebube Onwubiko arriving in Enugu yesterday to a hero's welcome.
He won a gold medal at the International STEM Olympiad Grand Finale in Rome.
I love seeing education reclaim its rightful place in our society.
This is just the beginning of something great.
WANTED BANDIT ABUBAKAR USMAN CAPTURED IN DELTA FOREST
Yesterday, I was informed about the abduction of Mrs. Blessing Chiedu, a native of Umunede Kingdom, who was kidnapped on 2nd July, 2026, along the Ani-Ifekide Farm Road, Ubulu-Uku. Her kidnappers had demanded a ransom of ₦100 million from her family.
Immediately after receiving the information, I escalated the matter, and the Delta State Police Command's Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Asaba, led by CSP Osakpolor, swung into action.
Using our Hydra Tech Surveillance System, a coordinated rescue operation was launched, and yesterday, Mrs. Blessing Chiedu, a native of Umunede, was successfully rescued alive and unharmed along the Ubulu-Unor/Ashama Road.
Following her rescue, we immediately launched a manhunt for the fleeing kidnappers. The operation continued throughout the night until approximately 6:45a.m today, when our Surveillance system located the gang to their hideout in the Ogwashi-Uku/Adonta Forest.
A gun battle ensued, during which our combined team overpowered the criminals. One of the most wanted suspects, Abubakar Usman, was successfully captured, while other members of the gang escaped into the forest with their firearm.
Investigations reveal that Abubakar Usman and his gang have been responsible for several kidnapping operations across Igbodo, Umunede, and surrounding communities, where they have extorted millions of naira in ransom from innocent families.
I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori @RtHonSheriff, for providing the enabling environment that made this operation possible. I also thank the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, for his unwavering support and the officers and men of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Asaba, for their professionalism. Thank you DSP Paul Xdot for doing this for our community.
My appreciation also goes to the members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service Area Command Office, led by DC Admin Ebube Jegbefume; members of the Ubulu-Uku Anti-Cult Group; Ward 5B Councillor, Hon. Okocha Martins (Giant); Pastor Jude Chukwuweike Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Area, for his continuous support; and the Mayor of Orumba South LGA, Anambra State, Hon. Shadrack Azubuike, for his invaluable assistance during this operation.
Our commitment to protecting lives and securing our communities remains unwavering. We will continue to work tirelessly alongside security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure that criminals have no hiding place.
Harrison Gwamnishu
SafeCity Security Service
09068773333 WhatsappOnl
This is Mr. Benjamin, and he is in charge of assessments for the International STEM Olympiad.
He said that this year's exam was the toughest ever, and for our boys to get gold, it means they are far ahead of their peers.
Nigeria has the brightest untapped brains globally.
I am enjoying Alex Onyia’s audacity. His can-do attitude is out of this world. Visiting his page is time well spent. All I see is value for money.
I don’t think that Nigerians can truly appreciate the magnitude of what he has started, at least not yet! As a serious nation, these are exactly the types of conversations we ought to be having. He called them the “The three wise men,” & I concur. I see a breath of fresh air.
This is a far departure from Pella & Big Brother Naija. This is no “Olodo Uprising.” Finally, I have found the hill I will die on. Exposing the children to a world-class education at this formative stage has changed their worldviews completely
These children are Geniuses already. They only needed a little exposure to complete a perfect triumvirate. Alex just armed the kids with a powerful weapon. Now they feel like they can take on the world. Twenty years from now, the world will definitely hear their name & fame.
The South East Maths Olympiad & the ongoing STEM Olympiad in Rome are eye-openers.
I love the fact that his team streamed the 2026 South East Maths Olympiad Grand Finale, where the winners emerged. I am glad the entire process was conducted publicly. By doing so, he cleared doubts & ensured that utmost integrity & transparency were met.
Tribalism should not be allowed in education. The politics of Nepotism & Quota System should have no business in education. Merit & transparency should be the only yardsticks. LET THE BEST OF US LEAD THE REST OF US!
WESTERN EDUCATION SAVED CHINA!
The four Asian Tigers (Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, & Taiwan) did not grow by selling akara, agbado, nor kulikuli. If Nigeria will make it, then STEM Education is the only forward.
My only fear is retainership. Nigeria is going to lose these brains to America, Canada, China, Germany, Australia, & the UK. They will excel, but not in Nigeria. We will continue to sell ourselves short. Tribalism, religion, & politics will continue to rob Nigeria of its greatness.
Congratulations to Alex & his team. I hope to them not only excel but expand what they started to the national. He has launched an initiative that could change the fortunes of Nigeria for good. He needs all the support he can get. The winning team must stay together.
We must protect the right of Nigeria to change.
More good news.
Don Anele Munachimso also won gold in Science.
He is the best in world science.
Remember, he is the best in IGCSE Chemistry in Nigeria.
The investment is worth it.
The wait is over.
We have 2 golds: Chimdiebube Onwubiko and Don Anele Munachimso.
We are the best in the world!
Egejurum Onyedikachi’s name was omitted. He should have a gold.
World news: A court in eastern China has sentenced a former city official Yang Youlin to death for taking more than 2.2bn yuan ($325m; £243m) in bribes over 30 years.
Can this happen in Nigeria 🇳🇬?
BREAKING: Peter Obi has called on President Bola Tinubu to either resign or abandon any plan to seek re-election, accusing his administration of failing to address the country’s worsening insecurity and showing what he described as a lack of compassion for victims.
I am excited to share that the 2026 finalists of the Aguata Best Students Challenge are departing Lagos, Nigeria, to Kigali, Rwanda, for the purpose of engaging in a life-changing edhcational trip.
The twenty high-flying students will be joining numerous others from different parts of the world to participate in the 2026 Pan-African Boot Camp, holding in the Ntare Louiselund International School, Kigali, Rwanda
At the Boot Camp, our champions will be exposed to activities in the areas of robotics, AI, digital storytelling, etc , - aside the international exposure and networking.
The twenty Aguata champions are:
• Ejezie Sopuruchukwu Divine — St. Peter’s Secondary School, Achina
• Ezema Chisom Esther — Community Secondary School, Akpo
• Okoye Amarachukwu Juliet — Community Secondary School, Aguluezechukwu
• Agu Chisom Stella — Marius Scholar Secondary School, Uga
• Uduji Chioma Treasure — First Hill Secondary School, Ekwulobia
• Ejikeme-Eze Barnabas Kenechukwu — Christ the King Secondary School, Igbo-Ukwu
• Anumudu Eberechukwu Mary-Cynthia — Holy Name Secondary School, Umuchu
• Onuorah Onyedikachi Micheal — St. Anthony’s Secondary School, Ikenga
• Moses Vivian Chinyere — Urban Girls Secondary School, Ekwulobia
• Ejemeni Chinecherem Happiness — Mother of Christ Secondary School, Ezinifite
• Orazulume Chibueze Kingsley — Community Boys Secondary School, Igbo-Ukwu
• Agu Makuochukwu Karen — Holy Child Secondary School, Isuofia
• Dominic Chijindu Divine — Immanuel Model Secondary School, Nkpologwu
14. Okafor Chinemerem Blessing — Community Secondary School, Ora-Eri
• Uzozie Chikamso Rita — Holy Family Secondary School, Igbo-Ukwu
• Onyemaeze Chigozie Divine — St. Augustine Secondary School, Uga
• Okpara Onyekachi Johnson — All Saint’s Seminary, Ekwulobia
• Obinna Goodluck Obinna — Uga Boys Secondary School, Uga
• Okechukwu Onyinyechi Gift — Community Secondary School, Umuchu
• Ezeokeke Ugonna Kingsley — Aguata High School, Aguata
Without doubt, the trip and the boot camp experiences will shape the lives of our amazing and hard-working champions and as well place them on pedestals for greater accomplishments in the future.
Great thanks to our sponsors for providing all the necessary - particularly financial - support needed for impacting in the lives of our amazing students.
Big congratulations to our stars.
In Aguata LGA, Impossibility is Nothing.
Congratulations to all the African countries representing our continent at the World Cup. Your performances have made Africa proud.
Special congratulations to Cape Verde, a nation with a landmass of 4,033 sq km, which is less than 0.5% of Nigeria’s landmass of 923,768 sq km, and a population of about 550,000, which is less than 0.25% of Nigeria’s population of 230,000,000. For context, Cape Verde has about 200,000 fewer people than Ogbomoso. Yet, they reached the knockout stage of the World Cup.
Cape Verde has once again demonstrated that greatness is not determined by size or population, but by planning and disciplined execution. When systems work, even the smallest nations can compete with the best in the world.
Nigeria’s absence from the World Cup is not a consequence of a lack of talent. It is the result of years of poor administration, weak institutions, and leadership that has consistently failed to build sustainable systems.
This is the lesson for us as a nation: if we can get leadership right, strengthen our institutions, plan and execute properly, and reward talent over connections, Nigeria can become a global success story, not only in football but also in other areas.
A new Nigeria is POssible … and Nigeria will be OK. -PO