# Nigerian education policy and funding debates > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nigerian-education-policy-and-funding-debates > Updated: 2026-10-08T03:49:04.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Nigerian political and academic leaders have engaged in discussions regarding the direction of the nation’s education system, focusing on language, curriculum, and funding. Initial debates centered on the linguistic approach to learning. Michael Aondoakaa, a People’s Democratic Party governorship candidate, advocated for increased French language education to improve regional trade via the African Continental Free Trade Area. Conversely, Abia State Governor Alex Otti promoted the use of indigenous mother tongues as the primary medium of instruction in early childhood education to enhance learning effectiveness. Subsequent discussions shifted toward systemic reform and financial investment. At the University of Nigeria, Prof. Bart Nnaji called for prioritizing STEM education and strengthening university-industry partnerships to foster a competitive economy. Meanwhile, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah advocated for a “national emergency” in the education sector, proposing that education be a central component of national budgets, teacher development, and infrastructure through the Enugu Education Policy. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-08: Nigerian leaders call for increased education funding and reform Nigerian leaders, including Governor Peter Mbah and Prof. Bart Nnaji, are calling for increased education funding and a national emergency declaration to ensure economic competitiveness and innovation. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigerian-leaders-call-for-increased-education-funding-and-reform ### 2026-09-23: Nigerian leaders debate language roles in education and trade Nigerian leaders discuss language in education: Michael Aondoakaa promotes French for regional trade, while Governor Alex Otti supports mother-tongue instruction for early learners. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigerian-leaders-debate-language-roles-in-education-and-trade --- Cite as: Nigerian education policy and funding debates. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nigerian-education-policy-and-funding-debates