Otamere Gladness 
SOKOTO, Nigeria – A joint European Union-funded programme accelerates efforts to reduce out-of-school children across Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states.
Implemented with UNICEF, the initiative focuses on Early Childhood Education as a foundation for long-term enrolment and retention.
Sokoto SUBEB Chairman Umar Tambuwal says early investment prevents future learning gaps.
“When we invest in early years, we reduce dropouts before they occur,” he says.
Between 2024 and 2025, over 160 early learning centres receive teaching materials, alongside teacher training, infrastructure upgrades and digital enrolment tracking.
UNICEF Sokoto Field Chief Michael Juma on Tuesday says the programme strengthens systems rather than merely expanding classrooms.
Traditional leaders, community groups and the media support mobilisation efforts, urging parents to enrol children early.
Officials say sustained joint funding could significantly reduce the region’s out-of-school burden.
About the Author
Koko Maxwella 
Chukwu Obinna 
Oluwafunbi Bello