…Says private institutions are allies in nation-building, not competitors

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Ogbomoso North Chapter, has called on governments at all levels to recognise private schools as essential partners in nation-building rather than competitors to the public education system.

In a statement signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Pastor Wale Ojewumi, NAPPS emphasised that private schools play a crucial role in bridging gaps within Nigeria’s educational landscape and should be better supported through favourable policies, funding access, and capacity development opportunities.
“Private schools have been steadfast partners in shaping the future of Nigeria, and we remain committed to the vision of a prosperous and educated nation. We are not in competition with public schools but rather complement their efforts, filling critical gaps where public resources are stretched,” the statement read.

Ojewumi noted that despite their contributions, including educating millions of Nigerian children and employing thousands of teachers, private schools face mounting operational challenges, particularly multiple taxation, limited funding access, and exclusion from key government initiatives.

He warned that such burdens threaten the sustainability of schools that serve as lifelines in many underserved communities, especially where public schools are overcrowded or under-resourced.
The association urged governments to create a more enabling environment for private education by streamlining taxes, extending educational grants and low-interest loans to private institutions, and forging public-private partnerships in areas such as curriculum innovation, digital learning, teacher training, and school security.

“Fostering collaboration, not competition, between public and private schools will ensure that every Nigerian child has a fair chance to succeed,” the statement added.

Reaffirming NAPPS’ unwavering commitment to quality education and national development, Pastor Ojewumi called on all stakeholders to view investments in education, whether by public or private actors, as an investment in Nigeria’s long-term peace, prosperity, and unity.

“The future of our nation lies in the classrooms. It is time for all hands to be on deck to ensure no child is left behind, regardless of the type of school they attend,” he said.