Falana: Millions of Nigerian Children Denied Basic Education as States Leave ₦97bn Unused

A senior lawyer and human rights advocate, Femi Falana, has raised alarm over what he described as the continued denial of basic education to millions of Nigerian children, blaming state governments for failing to access and properly utilise critical education funds.
In a press statement, Falana cited the provisions of the Child’s Rights Act and the Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act, both of which guarantee free and mandatory education for children at primary and junior secondary levels across the country.
He noted that while the Federal Government provides funding through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), many state governments and the Federal Capital Territory have failed to meet the requirements needed to access the funds.
According to Falana, as of March 2026, over ₦97 billion in UBEC funds remains unaccessed due to the inability or refusal of states to provide the required 50 percent counterpart funding. Under the law, the Federal Government contributes 2 percent of its Consolidated Revenue Fund to UBEC, which states can access only after matching the grant.
The development has renewed concerns about the implementation of Nigeria’s education policies and the widening gap in access to basic education, particularly among disadvantaged populations.
“Under the Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act, the Federal Government contributes a block grant equivalent to 2% of its Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to support basic education while state governments are required to provide a 50% matching grant (counterpart funding) to access this federal allocation”, Falana said.
Beyond the issue of unaccessed funds, Falana also accused some state governments of mismanaging the resources they receive, stating that funds meant for improving infrastructure and learning conditions in public schools are not being properly utilised.
The senior advocate further lamented that despite multiple rulings by both the ECOWAS Court and the Federal High Court affirming the right of every Nigerian child to free education, the country still has an estimated 20 million out-of-school children, one of the highest figures globally.
He blamed what he termed the “ruling class” for neglecting the educational needs of children from low-income families, effectively condemning them to a future of illiteracy and limited opportunities.
In response to the growing crisis, Falana disclosed that a formal request had been made to UBEC seeking detailed information on the level of compliance by state governments with the Universal Basic Education law.