Alumni group warns Nigerian government against privatizing unity schools
Barrister Chukwuyere Izuogu, President of the Old Students Association of the Federal Government College, Ilorin, 1996 Set Alumni, has cautioned the Nigerian federal government against privatizing Federal Unity Colleges. Izuogu stated that such a move would hinder equal access to quality education for children from low-income families. He expressed concern over reports suggesting the government might transfer management of some Unity Schools to alumni associations or private entities, arguing this would disadvantage low-income earners. Izuogu, an attorney-at-law, and his alumni team concluded this after investigating the potential consequences of such actions. The appeal was made in Ilorin during the inauguration of two solar-powered borehole systems, three 3D printing machines, and sports kits donated to the college as part of their reunion. Izuogu emphasized that while alumni contributions are valuable, transferring ownership to private interests could undermine the original objectives of Unity Schools. He cited his personal experience, noting the affordability of Federal Government College, Ilorin, allowed him access to quality education despite his background. The Director-Principal of the college, Dr. Agbo Paul, also urged the government to maintain the current ownership structure, highlighting that privatization would make education unaffordable for many due to profit-driven private operators. The Class of 1996's donations aim to improve water supply, introduce technolo
