By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE ALARMING rise in out-of-school children poses a growing threat to Nigeria’s future stability.
This challenge, which has reached national proportions, is now recognized as a critical issue that requires urgent attention.
The situation, if left unchecked, could lead to severe social unrest, with children being easily manipulated for dangerous purposes.
Governor Dapo Abiodun highlighted this pressing issue during a visit from the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children’s Education.
Abiodun expressed grave concerns over the rising number of out-of-school children, describing them as vulnerable to exploitation.
He pointed out that the children could become tools for destructive elements if preventive measures are not swiftly implemented.
Governor Abiodun stressed the importance of collective national action, explaining that this is not a problem isolated to any one part of the country.
He urged collaboration between federal and state governments, citing the need for long-term and sustainable solutions.
According to the governor, there is no time to waste in confronting this growing crisis.
Abiodun Launches Subsidized Rice Sales
In addition to his concerns about education, Governor Abiodun also initiated measures to combat rising food insecurity.
The launch of subsidized rice sales in Ogun State is aimed at helping struggling families amid soaring food prices.
Abiodun revealed that the subsidized food items would soon be available in all local government areas, extending beyond rice to garri, beans, and other essentials.
The distribution process, which includes the use of Point of Sales (PoS) machines and National Identity Number (NIN) verification, aims to ensure transparency and prevent exploitation.
Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of organized distribution to avoid overcrowding, assuring residents that the state government has devised a structured plan to ensure fair access to these essentials.
He also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing this palliative, noting that such initiatives are critical in easing the burden of high food prices across the country.
The Governor’s initiatives were also praised by key figures during the event.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security commended Ogun State’s effective distribution template, with plans to replicate it nationwide.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners also expressed gratitude for the state’s efforts, particularly in supporting pensioners.
He noted that these twin issues—out-of-school children and food insecurity—reflect the broader challenges facing Nigeria as he calls for immediate, collaborative action on the growing urgency to address these threats to national security and well-being.
