As relevant stakeholders in the education sector at the federal and state levels converged on Lagos to deliberate on the implementation of the National Education Quality Assurance Policy in Lagos State, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, has advocated a strong synergy that will ultimately enhance the quality of education across all schools in Lagos State.
Speaking on Thursday in Lagos during a Stakeholders engagement meeting on the implementation of the National Education Quality Assurance Policy in Lagos State, the Commissioner emphasised the importance of strong collaboration between federal and state authorities.
He noted that as education evolves, policies and guidelines must also be dynamic and align with contemporary trends and challenges in the sector.
Alli-Balogun stressed that while Nigeria’s education policies are well-structured, their impact depends on strict compliance and effective implementation.
According to him, if these policies are diligently followed, the overall standard of education in the country will significantly improve.
Alli-Balogun also expressed concerns over the declining enforcement of discipline among teachers, describing it as a critical issue requiring urgent attention.
“The mechanisms for disciplining teachers are no longer effectively applied. This has led to issues such as lateness and truancy in both public and private schools. We need to address this to restore discipline and accountability in the teaching profession,” he stated.
Given the high rate of student migration from other states to Lagos for educational opportunities, the Commissioner called on the Federal Government to give special policy consideration to Lagos.
He advocated the establishment of more federal government schools and technical colleges within the state to accommodate the growing number of students.
Additionally, he stressed the need for better incentives and recognition for Education Quality Assurance Officers, acknowledging their demanding responsibilities and dedication to upholding educational standards.
Alli-Balogun also urged the Federal Government to strengthen its partnership with Lagos State and address jurisdictional constraints that prevent Lagos State Quality Assurance Officers from monitoring federal schools within the state.
In her remarks, Dr. Tokunbo Yakubu-Oyinloye, Director of the Federal Education Quality Assurance Service (FEQAS), Lagos, highlighted the significance of the engagement in ensuring adherence to national educational standards.
She acknowledged that the National Education Quality Assurance Policy had been revised in Y2023 but the implementation has not been widespread.
“This engagement allows stakeholders to discuss and contribute to the effective implementation of the policy. Their input will help maintain high educational standards across all schools in Lagos State,” Dr. Yakubu-Oyinloye stated.
Citing the National Policy on Education (2013), she reiterated that quality assurance services must be coordinated at all levels – federal, state, and local – to ensure uniform standards.
Whilst commending the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun for his commitment to educational quality, she also praised the collaboration between Lagos State and FEQAS in upholding educational excellence.
The Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), Mr. Remi Abdul described the meeting as a significant step toward ensuring quality education in both private and public schools in Lagos.
He emphasised the importance of joint monitoring and evaluation by federal and state officials, noting that such collaboration has been a long-standing practice.
Abdul expressed optimism that with renewed synergy between federal and state governments, there will be improved education standards, teacher discipline, and overall learning outcomes in Lagos State and beyond.
