Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the international community to prioritize the welfare of African children in education, urging French President Emmanuel Macron to address the critical issue of food security in schools across the continent. Speaking at a joint conference in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that if African children had access to basic nutritional support, such as eggs or sandwiches in the classroom, it would eliminate a significant barrier to learning: the fear of hunger.
"Education is a fundamental human right, yet too many children in Africa face hunger in the classroom. When a child is uncertain about their next meal, learning becomes secondary to survival," Tinubu stated. "However, if we can ensure that children are nourished and supported, such as by providing a simple meal, we will see a transformative shift in their ability to learn and succeed."
The President's comments come in the context of ongoing efforts to improve the quality of education across Africa. Tinubu highlighted the critical link between proper nutrition and educational performance, noting that malnourishment often leads to poor concentration, lower academic achievement, and long-term health consequences.
"Without food security in the classroom, fear and distraction overwhelm the potential of many young minds," President Tinubu continued. "But with just a basic meal—whether it’s an egg or a sandwich—children are empowered, and this fear is replaced with the curiosity and focus essential for learning."
Tinubu called for greater cooperation between African nations, global powers like France, and international organizations to address the issue of food insecurity. He emphasized that such initiatives would not only reduce dropout rates but also enhance the overall quality of education on the continent, empowering future generations to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development.