The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has lamented that millions of children in northern Nigeria remain out of school, with girls disproportionately affected by persistent cultural, economic and social barriers that hinder school completion.

The Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Kano, Mr Rahama Farah, who disclosed this in a keynote address at the 2026 International Day of Education (IDE),

identified poverty, insecurity, harmful social norms and limited resources as key factors undermining learning outcomes and dimming the dreams of many children in the region.

The agency stressed that young people must be placed at the centre of conversations on what education should look like by 2030.

While acknowledging the progress recorded in parts of Northern Nigeria, the UNICEF chief called on youths to take the lead in reshaping the country’s education system, which he described as a fundamental right, a source of hope and the bedrock of any progressive society.

Addressing government officials, development partners, educators, parents, media practitioners and youths, Farah said education remains the strongest weapon for breaking cycles of hardship and building a future where every child can thrive with dignity.

“Education is not just a service; it is a right, a beacon of hope and the foundation of every strong society. It is what gives every child—girl or boy—freedom to dream, to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to walk with pride,” he said

According to him, young people are demanding an education system that is relevant, inclusive, safe and empowering, one that inspires creativity, motivates learning and leaves no child behind.

“They want classrooms that ignite imagination, teachers who inspire, and systems that catch every child. Education must go beyond textbooks to equip children with life skills, digital competence, critical thinking and the confidence to shape their own future,” Farah noted.

He added that the International Day of Education should not only be a moment of reflection, but a call to renewed commitment and collective action.

“At UNICEF, we remain firmly committed to supporting governments and communities to strengthen education systems, improve learning environments, promote adolescent development and ensure access to quality education for every child,” he said.

Farah emphasised that investing in education yields far-reaching dividends, noting that educating a child uplifts a family, educating a girl strengthens a community, and sustained investment in education lays the foundation for peace and sustainable development.

He also commended development partners, community and traditional leaders, teachers, civil society organisations and youths driving initiatives such as the youth-led education lab.

“Your voices matter. Your ideas matter,” he told the youths. “You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are partners today, shaping history.”

The UNICEF chief urged stakeholders to renew their collective resolve to ensure that every child in the Northwest and across Nigeria, whether in urban centres or rural communities, has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.