Christian leaders in Ogun State have attributed the decline in the quality of education in the country to government intervention. They assert that the standard of education began to deteriorate when the government took control of schools from their original owners. This sentiment was expressed by the Bishop of Egba Anglican Communion, Emmanuel Adekunle, during a news conference held to commemorate the 180th anniversary of the arrival of Christian missionaries in Abeokuta, who introduced the gospel to the ancient city.
Bishop Adekunle urged the government to return the schools to their original owners as a means to restore the education sector. He also proposed the establishment of a Ministry of Religious Affairs, emphasizing that education in Nigeria was initially introduced by religious organizations, which have since been overlooked. He explained that such a ministry would facilitate the recognition, monitoring, and joint management of the religious doctrines of various groups.
The bishop noted, “Since the government’s takeover of schools from their original owners, the standard of education has failed, and the quality of graduates from these institutions has diminished. To restore the standard of education nationwide, it is crucial for the government to hand over mission schools to their original owners.” He further elaborated on the need for a Ministry of Religious Affairs, paralleling it with the existing Ministry of Education. He highlighted that the same organizations that brought education to the country have been neglected, and a dedicated ministry could help address this issue.
Reflecting on the early days of Christianity in Nigeria, Adekunle remarked on the ease with which churches could acquire free land for development projects, a stark contrast to the current challenges in obtaining land. On the occasion of the 180th anniversary of Christianity in Nigeria, he emphasized that the arrival of Christianity in Abeokuta in 1843 brought significant civilization and development to the nation. He pointed out the profound impacts this had on various sectors, including culture, education, politics, agriculture, and health, which continue to benefit the country today.
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