As Nigeria’s education system continues to face significant challenges, Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate, has spoken out against the poor results recorded in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). In a recent interview, Obi blamed the poor performance on the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s education sector, calling for urgent reforms.
“The poor JAMB results are a clear reflection of the failing education system in Nigeria. Our schools and universities are not adequately equipped to prepare students for the future,” Obi said.
A Troubling Trend in National Education
For years, the results of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams have raised concerns about the quality of education across the country. The 2025 UTME, in particular, saw a notable drop in performance, with many students failing to meet the required cut-off marks for university admissions. Peter Obi’s comments underscore what many experts have been pointing out for years: Nigeria’s education system is in crisis.
Obi argued that the unpreparedness of students for exams like JAMB is not just an individual issue but a reflection of systemic failures in education. Underfunded schools, outdated teaching methods, and a lack of modern infrastructure are just some of the factors contributing to this decline.
“If our schools are not properly funded, our teachers are not adequately trained, and our curriculum is outdated, then how can we expect our students to perform well?” Obi questioned.
A Broken System: The Root Causes
The challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector go beyond the exam results. According to Obi, deep-rooted issues are the primary cause of the educational decline:
- Inadequate Funding: The Nigerian education system suffers from chronic underfunding, leading to poor infrastructure, lack of teaching resources, and overcrowded classrooms.
- Poor Teacher Training: Teachers, who are the backbone of any education system, are often underpaid, undertrained, and overworked. This affects their ability to deliver quality education to students.
- Outdated Curriculum: The curriculum in many Nigerian schools does not adequately prepare students for modern challenges. Students are often taught outdated material that does not reflect current global trends or technological advancements.
- Limited Access to Technology: The lack of access to digital resources and online learning platforms has left many students behind, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools had to adapt to virtual learning.
- Examination-Centered System: Nigeria’s educational focus is often too exam-centric. Rather than fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, the system tends to prioritize rote learning and memorization.
The Need for Urgent Reforms
Peter Obi has long been an advocate for educational reform, and he insists that fixing the education sector should be a top priority for the Nigerian government. In his statement, Obi highlighted the need for comprehensive changes across all levels of education—from primary schools to universities.
“We need to overhaul our education system to prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. This includes better training for teachers, modernizing our curriculum, and investing heavily in infrastructure,” Obi stressed.
He further emphasized that investment in education is one of the best ways to secure Nigeria’s future. A well-educated youth population will not only help the country meet its development goals but will also create a more competitive workforce globally.
A National Crisis That Requires Collective Action
Peter Obi’s remarks are not just a critique of the current administration; they are a call to action for all Nigerians. The poor performance in the 2025 UTME is a symptom of a larger problem that has been brewing for decades. Politicians, educators, and parents alike must collaborate to address these challenges if Nigeria is to ensure a brighter future for its youth.
Obi’s advocacy for reform has gained traction among many Nigerians who believe that the future of the country lies in the hands of the next generation. By investing in education, Nigeria can break the cycle of poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment that has plagued the country for years.
Conclusion: Reclaiming the Future Through Education
The poor JAMB results in the 2025 UTME are more than just disappointing numbers—they represent a wake-up call for Nigeria’s education system. Peter Obi’s statement sheds light on the urgent need for reform and highlights the broader implications for the country’s future.
If Nigeria is to compete on the global stage, educational reform must be a priority. Without significant investment in schools, teachers, and curricula, the country risks condemning another generation of students to an education system that fails to prepare them for success.
It’s time to act—before another generation of students faces the same challenges.
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