Obasanjo Warns of Security Risks from 20 Million Out-of-School Children in Nigeria

The Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has raised concerns over the growing number of out-of-school children in the country, warning that the situation poses a significant security threat. 

Speaking at a commissioning ceremony for projects in Bauchi on Sunday, Obasanjo highlighted that the over 20 million children not attending school are vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups like Boko Haram and other criminal elements.

Obasanjo emphasized the importance of investing in education and human capacity building to prevent future instability. 

He cited World Bank statistics indicating that more than 20 million Nigerian children are currently out of school, a figure that represents roughly 10 per cent of the country's estimated 230 million population. 

“That is recruitment for future Boko Haram; nobody needs to tell us that,” Obasanjo warned, addressing the audience, which included Governor Bala Mohammed and other dignitaries. 

He stressed that without proper education, these children could be exploited by extremist groups over the next 10 to 15 years.

The former president argued that failing to provide education and development opportunities to these children leaves them unequipped to support themselves, their families, and their communities. 

This, he said, makes them more susceptible to exploitation by extremist and criminal organizations.

“Apart from the fact that 10 per cent of our population is not being equipped to develop their innate abilities, we are also preparing them to be recruited in 10 to 15 years for whatever form of Boko Haram or banditry exists at that time,” Obasanjo added.

Obasanjo's remarks underscore the urgency of addressing Nigeria's educational crisis, positioning education not only as a developmental priority but also as a critical factor in national security. 

His comments serve as a reminder of the long-term consequences of neglecting the needs of millions of young Nigerians, who may otherwise become targets for recruitment by extremist groups if their educational needs remain unmet.

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