Dr. John Momoh, Chairman and CEO of Channels Media Group, proprietors of Channels TV, has offered insightful recommendations to address the persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s education system.
As the keynote speaker at the 170th anniversary and founder’s day celebration of the Baptist Academy Old Students Association (BAOSA) in Lagos, Momoh emphasized the urgent need to transform schools into secure, functional, and motivating environments to rebuild the eroding trust among schools, government, and society.
Under the theme, ‘Bridging the gap – Restoring trust between schools, government and society,’ the distinguished media executive outlined a threefold crisis currently afflicting Nigerian schools, which contrasts sharply with the educational landscape of his youth. This crisis has led to deteriorating academic standards, rising youth unemployment, and a weakening of civic engagement, all contributing to a significant trust deficit among key stakeholders.
A proud alumnus of Baptist Academy, Momoh praised the federal government’s recent curriculum overhaul and its renewed focus on technical and vocational education. He called for a collaborative alliance-a sincere social contract-between government bodies, educators, parents, alumni, and the private sector to revitalize the education sector.
“Nationwide, classrooms are bursting at the seams, science labs remain unused, and the enthusiasm for learning has been replaced by exhaustion and disillusionment. The shortage of qualified teachers is severe, with nearly 200,000 secondary school teaching positions vacant.
In many institutions, educators are compelled to teach multiple subjects, often beyond their expertise.
“Low pay, delayed wages, and scarce opportunities for professional growth have sapped teachers’ motivation, pushing many out of the profession.
“Security concerns exacerbate these issues. In the North-West and North-East regions, numerous schools have closed due to kidnappings and violent attacks. Approximately 8 million Nigerian adolescents of secondary school age are out of school-the highest number in sub-Saharan Africa. Among those attending, about 75% struggle with basic literacy and numeracy. In some areas, the sound of gunfire has replaced the school bell, while in others, poverty and soaring private school fees have made education a privilege rather than a universal right.
“The private education sector, though filling some gaps, presents its own challenges-rapid, unregulated growth, inconsistent quality, and escalating costs that exclude disadvantaged families.
“Where education once served as a powerful equalizer, it now often mirrors societal inequalities.
Despite these obstacles, optimism remains. The government’s curriculum reforms, renewed attention to vocational training, and the dedication of teachers who persevere daily offer hope. If institutions like Baptist Academy, which began modestly in 1855, could evolve into pillars of moral and intellectual excellence, then Nigeria’s education system can be rebuilt-not just physically, but through vision, integrity, and collective commitment.
“As we commemorate this milestone, our mission extends beyond honoring a legacy of excellence. We must ask ourselves-how can alumni, educators, parents, and citizens unite to close the widening divide between schools, government, and society? How do we restore confidence in an education system that once shaped our national identity?”
“Rebuilding trust demands a partnership-a genuine social contract involving government, educators, parents, alumni, and the private sector, all collaborating to reclaim the dignity and purpose of education,” he asserted.
Momoh outlined four strategic solutions, urging all stakeholders to elevate the teaching profession, emphasizing that no reform will succeed if educators remain undervalued and undercompensated.
“Expecting excellence from classrooms where morale is shattered and paychecks are uncertain is unrealistic. We must invest intentionally in teacher training, provide incentives for service in rural areas, and establish ongoing professional development programs that reward dedication and integrity.
“Secondly, schools must be safe, well-equipped, and inspiring environments. It is unacceptable that children continue to learn in dilapidated classrooms or fear abduction en route to school. Every child, regardless of location, deserves a secure setting that nurtures curiosity and confidence. Alumni groups can lead by example-adopting schools, refurbishing facilities, installing solar power, and enhancing libraries and ICT centers. This demonstrates that education is a shared responsibility, not solely a government obligation.
“Third, we need to rethink both curriculum content and teaching methods. The new national curriculum offers a valuable chance to make education relevant again-highlighting digital skills, critical thinking, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship. Equally important is moral education-the kind we experienced at Baptist Academy, where discipline, faith, and service formed the bedrock of character. May the legacy of our principal, Dr. J. A. Adegbite, continue to inspire us.
“Fourth, accountability must be embraced-not through antagonism, but through patriotic involvement. Alumni networks like BAOSA can serve as vital connectors, collaborating with Ministries of Education, SUBEBs, and local school boards to monitor performance, mentor students, and evaluate outcomes. We must act as the system’s conscience-steadfast, just, and forward-thinking.
“Ultimately, education is the cornerstone of nation-building. Every classroom restored, every teacher empowered, and every student guided represents a step toward national rejuvenation. The future moral compass and prosperity of Nigeria hinge on the citizens our schools cultivate.”
“As we reflect on 170 years of this esteemed institution, let us recognize that we are not merely celebrating history-we are renewing a pledge. A pledge linking education with leadership, faith with service, and heritage with hope.”
Dr. Momoh concluded by affirming that the destiny of Nigeria’s secondary education will be shaped not only in government offices but through the dedication of those who regard classrooms as sacred spaces-where young people learn not just to earn a living, but to live with meaning.
The event featured notable dignitaries, school officials, and students who performed musical tributes, alongside members of BAOSA.
To enhance Baptist Academy’s infrastructure, an Infrastructure Endowment Fund was launched, with billionaire alumnus Chief Kessington Adebutu generously donating fifty million naira to support the initiative.
BAOSA President, Mr. Olumide Ajomale, expressed gratitude for this remarkable contribution and revealed plans to establish a one billion naira infrastructure endowment fund, with an official launch forthcoming.
