Abuja, Nigeria (Running Africa) — Nigeria has launched the $552 million HOPE-EDU program, a nationwide education initiative backed by the World Bank and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) to improve learning outcomes, strengthen public schools and expand access to quality education across the country.
Speaking at the program’s launch in Abuja on 16 July 2026, President Bola Tinubu said the initiative will directly benefit approximately 29 million children, more than 500,000 teachers, 65,000 public schools, and 10,000 non-formal learning centers nationwide.
Major Investment in Nigeria’s Education System
The HOPE-EDU program is one of the largest education investments in Nigeria in recent years and aims to improve teaching quality, expand educational opportunities and strengthen the country’s human capital development.
The initiative is jointly financed by the World Bank and the Global Partnership for Education, reflecting continued international support for reforms in Nigeria’s education sector.
Part of Broader Development Agenda
President Tinubu said the program forms part of five flagship government initiatives focused on poverty reduction, healthcare improvements, education and community development.
According to the president, the projects are intended to translate the benefits of recent economic reforms into measurable improvements in the lives of Nigerians, particularly through stronger public services and increased investment in education.
Supporting Long-Term Human Capital Development
Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu’s administration has introduced wide-ranging economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, electricity pricing reforms and tax policy changes aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy.
The government says the HOPE-EDU program will play a central role in improving educational outcomes, equipping young Nigerians with essential skills and reinforcing the country’s long-term economic growth through greater investment in human capital.
With millions of students, educators and schools set to benefit, officials expect the program to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to modernize its education system and expand access to quality learning nationwide.
