International Day of Education 2026: First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Calls for Investment in Inclusive, Tech-Driven Learning

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for sustained investment in quality and inclusive education as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the 2026 International Day of Education.

In her message commemorating the global event on January 24, the First Lady emphasized the need to equip children and young people with the skills, values and mindset required to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world. She noted that education remains the most powerful instrument for building knowledge, creativity, ethical judgment and responsible citizenship in an era increasingly shaped by innovation and automation.

Mrs Tinubu urged stakeholders across government, private sector and civil society to prioritise policies and initiatives that strengthen access to inclusive and high-quality learning for all Nigerians, particularly young people who represent the country’s greatest asset for future growth.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, AI and Education Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation, she highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on learning, work and society. While acknowledging the vast opportunities presented by these advancements, the First Lady stressed that technology must be harnessed in ways that serve humanity and uphold core societal values.

She stated that as Nigeria embraces artificial intelligence and innovation, deliberate efforts must be made to ensure that human judgment, compassion and ethical standards remain at the centre of development. According to her, humans must remain in control of technology, using it as a tool to enhance progress rather than allowing it to dictate the direction of society.

The First Lady reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting inclusive education policies that prepare learners not only for today’s challenges but also for the demands of the future. She maintained that sustained investment in education is essential for building a resilient, ethical and forward-looking nation capable of competing globally.

Mrs Tinubu concluded by encouraging Nigerians to see education as a collective responsibility and a strategic investment in national development, social cohesion and long-term prosperity.