The Federal Government has unlocked $552 million under the HOPE-EDU programme as part of efforts to accelerate basic education reforms across the country.
According to a statement signed by Boriowo Folashade, Director of Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Education, the initiative aligns with the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reposition education as a key driver of national development.
Announcing the development, the Honourable Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the release of the funds as the fastest activation of education financing of such magnitude in Nigeria’s history, accomplished within 12 months.
According to the minister, the funding will bolster foundational learning, expand access to quality basic education, and strengthen accountability mechanisms across participating states.
The HOPE for Quality Basic Education for All (HOPE-EDU) programme is co-financed by the World Bank and the Global Partnership for Education.
The programme supports measurable reforms aligned with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), aimed at revitalising the country’s education system.
The ministry also highlighted a sustained increase in federal education funding since 2022. It noted that ₦3.520 trillion has been allocated to the sector in the 2026 budget, the highest allocation to date.
Reaffirming its commitment, the ministry stated that the investments would translate into tangible improvements in learning outcomes, enhanced teacher effectiveness, equitable access to education, and strengthened system-wide accountability.
