About the Event
NMEC HOLDS MINISTERIAL PRESS BRIEFING TO MARK 2024 INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY
Abuja, 6th September 2024 – The National Mass Education Commission (NMEC) under the leadership of the Executive Secretary Prof. Simon Ibor Akpama hosted a Ministerial Press Briefing to commemorate the 2024 International Literacy Day, with the theme, " Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace". The event, held at the Minister Conference Hall, Federal Ministry of Education, brought together key stakeholders in the education sector to discuss the importance of multilingualism in fostering national peace and development.
The briefing was graced by the Honourable Minister of State for Education Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, along with high-profile attendees including NOGALSS National President, Comrade Noah Emmanuel, UNESCO Head of Office and Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Abdourahane Diallo, and Mrs. Hajarat Titilayo Olayande, Director of the FCT Department for Mass Education.
In his opening remarks, NMEC Executive Secretary, Prof. Simon Akpama, emphasized NMEC's commitment to advancing multilingual education across Nigeria. He noted that literacy in local languages is a critical pathway to preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that education reaches all regions of the country. “We are dedicated to promoting literacy in multiple languages, ensuring that no community is left behind,” Akpama said.
NOGALSS National President, Comrade Noah Emmanuel, echoed this sentiment, pledging his organization’s full support through high-level advocacy and collaboration with NMEC. “NOGALSS is ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the vision of multilingual education for all is realized,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of a collective effort in making literacy more accessible to marginalized communities.
UNESCO Head of Office and Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Abdourahane Diallo, reiterated the UNESCO’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts in education. He called for a stronger focus on data collection, multilingual education and vocational training to bolster Nigeria’s literacy efforts. “UNESCO stands ready to assist, but we must prioritize accurate data and vocational education to achieve lasting impact,” Dr. Diallo stated.
In his address, the Honourable Minister of State for Education Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, highlighted the role of multilingualism in promoting mutual peace and understanding. “Promoting multilingual education is one of the most effective ways to foster unity and mutual respect in a diverse nation like Nigeria,” he remarked. The Minister called on all stakeholders to continue their collaboration in advancing non-formal education as a tool for national development.
The event marked a reaffirmation of commitments from key national and international players in the education sector to work towards inclusive and accessible education in Nigeria.
