The Alumni Association of the Federal School of Arts and Science (FSAS), Aba, 1980–1982 set, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s education sector, urging federal and state governments to declare a state of emergency in public education.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s biannual reunion meeting held recently in Umuahia, Abia State, and signed by the association’s President, Elder Tony Ejieji, Vice President, Mrs. Frances Iweha-Onukwu; and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Johnson Onyekachi Owanta.
Elder Tony Ejieji FSAS Aba Alumni President
Presenting the resolution, Elder Ejieji said members agreed that the deteriorating condition of public schools in Nigeria required urgent intervention, warning that the sector was experiencing a steady decline in quality, manpower, and public confidence.
He called for the re-establishment of Sixth Form colleges as a strategic step to bridge academic gaps and strengthen both secondary and tertiary education pathways in the country.
Ejieji, a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting its alma mater, noting that members had already begun contributing towards the renovation of one of the school buildings to improve learning conditions.
He explained that the group deliberately held part of its activities in Umuahia to experience the ambience of Abia State’s capital, while also commending developmental strides recorded in the state.
The president lauded Governor Alex Otti for what he described as notable improvements in infrastructure, security, and economic management, particularly in Aba and surrounding areas.
“Governor Otti has done very well. There is intentional development of bus stops, good lighting at night, and overall improvement in the environment. I am quite impressed,” he said.
He also commended the administration’s intervention in the Aba power sector, describing it as impactful in stabilising electricity supply and boosting economic activities. He further applauded reforms in teachers’ welfare, pension payments, and healthcare services for the elderly.
Chief Olatunbosun Olanipekun, SAN
Fielding questions from National Ambassador, a legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Olatunbosun Olanipekun, also expressed concern over the declining standard of public education in Nigeria, noting that public schools have lost quality and public trust over time.
Speaking during the reunion, Olanipekun recalled his early education at the Federal School of Arts and Science, Aba, where he gained admission at the age of 15, describing it as an environment that promoted unity, discipline, and national cohesion.
He lamented that such values have significantly diminished in today’s public school system, questioning whether parents can still confidently send their children to public schools.
He attributed the decline to poor funding, inadequate teacher welfare, and low morale among education workers, stressing that the teaching profession has been gradually devalued.
On the judiciary, the Senior Advocate described it as “still the last hope of the common man,” while acknowledging occasional challenges such as miscarriages of justice. He maintained that the institution remains largely intact and functional, with established disciplinary mechanisms to address misconduct.
Olanipekun dismissed concerns of systemic executive interference in the judiciary, noting that existing safeguards are sufficient to protect judicial independence and accountability.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, he urged stakeholders in the electoral process to uphold integrity and work towards restoring public confidence in democratic institutions.
“Nigerians should have faith in the electoral system. Stakeholders must behave responsibly to restore confidence,” he said, urging leaders to prioritise accountability and legacy.
He called for stronger institutions and improved governance practices, stressing that public office holders should focus on leaving lasting positive impact for future generations.
