“Nigeria.” If we played the classic game of word association, here are the likely first words that come to mind: Email scams, corruption, poverty, AIDS, environmental disaster, stoning of “infidels,” beauty-pageant riots. Recently, in a well-stocked, discount bookstore (a symbol, perhaps, of open-mindedness), I heard a clerk say: “Forget Nigeria; it’s a cesspool.” At that moment, I turned to say, “Don’t give up on Nigerians. There’s hope.”
The news from Nigeria is, indeed, alarming and, in the case of AIDS, apocalyptic. The African continent has long suffered the indignity of stereotype and cynicism. Yet a hopeful story is emerging. What is commonly reported as “Nigeria” doesn’t speak for all Nigerians, any more than any country’s leadership necessarily speaks for its citizens.
Having just returned from Nigeria, we are inspired by its people, its plans, and its practice.
What is making the difference? Education. The delivery system? Teachers. Nigerians recognize that teachers are multipliers of growth and the glue of society. Nigeria is developing policies around training, connection, and information access for its citizens; local learning centers are sprouting up like their cherished cassava, providing educational nutrients to villages.
Nigerians have mobilized a 144,000 teacher campaign for a national educational renaissance. Groups like the Islamic Sisters Association and several interfaith agencies, organized by UNICEF, have been instrumental. No murder. Instead, I see constructive teacher collaboration - across religious, tribal, and economic borders.
Numerous teacher conferences in Nigeria have addressed community education, early-childhood programs, girls’ education, safety, HIV-AIDS, literacy, corruption, environmental protection, and professional development of teachers. Ministry of Education officials are committed to excellence in teaching. They know that with good teachers, children glow.
A recent United Nations global report identifies 59 million teachers, the largest professionally-trained community in the world. The results of effective teaching are exponential. Girls who remain in school for one year longer create double-digit economic benefits to families; increased literacy results in increased infrastructure, spending power, health, decreased infant mortality, and family planning. Teachers ensure the future.
Nigeria is a country of 125 million people, 20% of the entire continent. 44% of the Nigerian population is under 15 years of age. The country is rich in oil, natural gas, agriculture, mining, and intellectual energy. Youth leaders are articulate and motivated. These factors and a powerful momentum for growth are supported by an active, moral, dedicated Nigerian Diaspora of over one million. Investment interest and action is growing. An educated Nigeria is a treasure of resources, markets, and regional stability.
Here are some replacement words for the word-association game: dignified, self-reliant, creative, fertile. A Kanuri saying speaks volumes: “Goodness gets a seat.” The Nigerians deserve a seat. In the end, an educated person dispels stereotypes, counters cynicism, and overcomes setbacks. An unruly child who cheats or acts aggressively does not characterize the entire class.
In an age that sits precariously on the brink of destruction, education is our most vital task. No child - no nation - should be left behind. The Nigerians know this as well as anyone. They are doing something about it. We could all take a lesson.
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