The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, has highlighted the significance of upholding democratic values to foster education system and inclusivity in Nigeria.
The minister made the call while delivering convocation lecture Friday, at the 39th Convocation Ceremonies of the University of Ilorin.
In the convocation lecture, titled “Nurturing Democratic Values and Education for The Future of Nigeria”, Fagbemi stressed that “the future of education in Nigeria is bright when individuals and students are aware of their civil, social, cultural and political rights and their roles in sustaining same to build an equitable society, FELLOW PRESS reports.
“Education empowers individuals by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions. In Democratic society, an educated populace is better equipped to engage with political process and hold leaders accountable.”
“It fosters social cohesion by promoting understanding and respect among diverse groups.
The Attorney General of the Federation added that a democratic education encourages critical thinking and debate, as well as allow students to question authority and challenge unjust practices which will cultivate political awareness and active citizenry.
Fagbemi, however underscored political equality, personal liberty, human rights safeguarding, adherence to the law, openness and responsibility and citizen involvement as the essence of democratic values for an ethnically diverse society as Nigeria.
Speaking on Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) of President Bola Tinubu, the minister disclosed that the initiative had already started impacting the tertiary education sector. “It is necessary to highlight a few notable achievements of the fund. As at September 2024, the Fund had granted 351,317 loans totalling N84.2billion.”
He also noted that University of Ilorin stands a testament to NELFUND’s impact– a beacon of hope for those who strive for knowledge despite financial constraints, Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to education embedded in Renewed Hope agenda.
Fagbemi also encouraged promoting equality and inclusivity as creating fair and just society starts with ensuring.
He added, “these are the fundamental principles of democratic values which are strong enough to ensure equitable and quality education in Nigeria. This is the mischief that the constitution of Nigeria wants to fight by providing that there will be right to freedom from discrimination regardless of particular community, ethnic group, place or origin,sex, religion or political opinion.”
