The Lagos State Committee on the Policy for Non-State Schools has hosted a public hearing with over 200 education stakeholders to review the draft framework aimed at improving the regulation, quality, and integration of private schools across the state.
The session, held at the NUT Pavilion, Alausa, Ikeja, provided a platform for school owners, education professionals, NGOs, faith-based organisations, homeschoolers, and other stakeholders to share their views, propose additions, and raise concerns regarding the policy.
Speaking at the hearing, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, Chairman of the Committee and Director of Private Education and Special Programmes at the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), assured participants that the Lagos State Government, led by Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, is committed to a holistic policy that reflects the interests of all stakeholders.
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa said the final policy, once approved by the Commissioner, will be submitted to the State Executive Council for the assent of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. He emphasised that substantive inputs from the hearing would be considered if aligned with the goals of quality, equity, and sustainability.
Mr. David Ojelade, Head of the OEQA Research Unit and Committee Secretary, described the hearing as a critical step toward creating a harmonised regulatory framework that ensures accountability, safety, and quality in Lagos’ non-state education sector. He noted that private schools play a crucial role in expanding access, easing pressure on public schools, and providing innovative learning alternatives.
Dr. James Fadokun, Southern Region Lead for the Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE), lauded Lagos State as a model for the South-West in education reform. He commended the government for prioritising education under the THEMES+ agenda and expressed confidence that concerns raised by school owners would receive due attention.
Among the key issues raised were calls for a review of tax obligations to avoid multiple taxation, exemptions for charitable and faith-based schools, and the recognition of specialised schools, such as science, arts, or commercial-focused institutions, to promote excellence and clarify operational mandates.
Stakeholders submitted both oral and written recommendations, highlighting areas that require further deliberation.
Once finalised, the Lagos State Policy on Non-State Schools is expected to enhance regulatory oversight, improve educational outcomes, and serve as a model for effective government-stakeholder collaboration for the benefit of Nigerian children.