Former APC National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, has stressed that only widespread, quality education can tackle insecurity in Nigeria.
Speaking at his 87th birthday celebration in Ila, Osun State, on Friday, Akande warned against lowering academic standards, arguing that poorly trained graduates cannot compete globally. “Education is what differentiates humans from animals. Without it, people can kill without shame. Good education makes you competitive in the world,” he said.
He criticised the practice of setting low pass marks in universities, noting that countries like China demand high standards rooted in meritocracy. He also referenced the United States’ global influence, which he attributed to the strength of its educational system.
Akande cautioned that cutting corners in education leaves Nigeria vulnerable. “If you pass with 25% or admit with 20%, you cannot compete with advanced nations. You will be enslaved, and strangers will take over your land,” he warned.
Responding to questions on insecurity in the North, Akande pointed to mass education as the long-term solution. He recalled Obafemi Awolowo’s introduction of free education in the 1950s, which he said helped stabilise the South-West. “Look at Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping. Deep, universal education can gradually eradicate these problems,” he said.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, representing President Bola Tinubu, praised Akande’s lifelong contributions to democracy. He described him as a figure whose role in Nigeria’s democratic journey is indispensable.
Other dignitaries, including Kwara Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, Prof Olu Aina, NPC Chairman Aminu Yusuf, and Senators Olubiyi Fadeyi and Lola Ashiru, also attended. Osun APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji hailed Akande as an exemplary leader and “an institution people consult for knowledge.”
