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Jonathan described the state of higher education in Africa as worrisome, noting that the absence of African universities among the top 100 institutions globally reflects deeper structural challenges in the continent’s education system.
KaNo—
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has raised fresh concerns over the poor global ranking of African universities, warning that the trend could significantly undermine the continent’s technological advancement, industrialisation and long-term economic growth.
Jonathan made this known on Tuesday in Abuja while delivering a lecture titled, “Harnessing Industrial Capacity for Inclusive Growth and Regional Stability in Africa,” to participants of Course 34 of the National Defence College (NDC).
He described the state of higher education in Africa as worrisome, noting that the absence of African universities among the top 100 institutions globally reflects deeper structural challenges in the continent’s education system.
“It is troubling that no African university is ranked among the top 100 globally, and only one appears among the top 200. That situation is terribly bad,” Jonathan said.
Jonathan Calls For Review Of Education Systems
He stressed the need for African countries to review and recalibrate their education systems, beginning from the foundational levels up to tertiary institutions, to ensure that they are aligned with modern economic realities.
Jonathan argued that Africa’s current education model largely produces graduates without the specialised skills required to drive innovation and industrial growth.
“We must review and recalibrate our businesses from primary schools to universities. We don’t have enough specialised universities in Africa. This is a major gap that must be addressed urgently,” he added.
The former president emphasised that investment in education and human capital development remains one of the most critical steps toward unlocking Africa’s economic potential.
Drawing comparisons with other regions, Jonathan cited Singapore as an example of how strategic investment in education can transform a nation’s fortunes.
He noted that despite having limited natural resources, Singapore was able to achieve rapid economic growth through deliberate policies focused on capacity building and knowledge development.
“Singapore developed largely because of its deliberate investment in education and human capacity. Africa can learn from such examples,” he said.
Jonathan Describes India’s Development Strides
Jonathan also pointed to India’s rise as a global hub for information technology, attributing the success to early investments in specialised institutions designed to train highly skilled professionals.
“India, at independence, set up institutions that prepared it for the future. These were specialised institutions, not designed for everyone, but for training the best minds to dominate globally,” he explained.
He warned that Africa risks being left behind in the ongoing global technological revolution if urgent steps are not taken to strengthen its education system.
“If we miss out on the industrial revolution, the agricultural revolution and now the technological revolution, we will continue to lag behind. IT is now ruling the world, and we must focus on preparing our young people for it,” he said.
Jonathan further noted that Africa’s vast natural resources would not automatically translate into prosperity unless countries develop the capacity to process and add value to those resources.
“Africa has everything it needs: natural resources, human capital, and a large market, but we are still behind because we are not adding value. That is where the challenge lies,” he stated.
The former president urged participants of the NDC course, whom he described as emerging strategic leaders, to champion policies that would strengthen education systems, enhance technological capacity and promote industrial development across the continent.
He acknowledged that transforming Africa’s education and industrial sectors would not happen overnight but expressed optimism that sustained commitment from leaders and citizens could bring about meaningful change.
“With determination and commitment, we can change the story of Africa. It will not happen overnight, but it is achievable,” he said.
Defence Minister Says Security Is Critical To Economic Growth
In his remarks, the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s defence autonomy as a pathway to sustainable economic growth and national resilience.
Musa, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, highlighted the strong link between security and development, noting that no country can achieve lasting prosperity in an environment of instability.
“Lasting peace cannot be sustained without inclusive economic growth, just as sustainable development cannot flourish in an environment of insecurity,” he said.
Musa commended Jonathan for his insightful lecture, noting that industrialisation is no longer just an economic aspiration but a critical component of national survival and global relevance.
He also stressed the importance of regional economic integration, particularly through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which he said could boost intra-African trade and industrial growth.
According to him, African countries must work collaboratively to transform their natural and human resources into value-added products, technological innovation and sustainable prosperity.
The minister charged the graduating participants of Course 34 to apply the knowledge and networks they had acquired during their training to strengthen national resilience, promote economic development and enhance peace and security.
“You are graduating at a time when strategic leadership is more critical than ever. The knowledge and networks you have acquired here must translate into sound policies, innovative thinking and effective leadership,” Musa said.
Alausa:AGF Will Review Laws for Transfer Of Recovered Funds To NELFUND
In a related development, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed that the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, is currently reviewing relevant laws to facilitate the transfer of recovered funds to the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
The move follows a directive by President Bola Tinubu that all funds recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should be channelled into the student loan scheme to expand access to higher education.
Speaking during a press briefing at the State House after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, Alausa said the government was working on modalities to operationalise the directive.
He added that unclaimed dividends in the Capital Market Trust Fund and Dormant Account Trust Fund would also be channelled into NELFUND to broaden its reach.
“The Attorney-General is reviewing the relevant laws to ensure full legal compliance in moving those funds. If amendments are required, they will be considered,” Alausa said.
He described the initiative as a major opportunity to support Nigerian students and expand access to education, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The minister also commended President Tinubu for providing political support and funding to advance educational reforms, noting that improved access to education would play a key role in national development.