Reps to debate alarming rate of out of school children in March

Abuja – The House of Representatives has dedicated March 12 to debate and address factors responsible for alarming rate of out of school children in the country.

The Speaker of the house, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila (APC-Lagos) made the announcement while speaking at Wednesday’s plenary.

Gbajabiamila said that all other matters would be set aside to allow members focus on how to address the menace.

“In line with my speech after our recess and our Legislative Agenda, we shall dedicate March 12 to look into issues of out of school children.

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“All members should be present as it is a very important matter, we cannot just watch situation continue to deteriorate; it is like sitting on gun powder,” he said.

According to a survey by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Nigeria has over 13.2 million out of school children.

The survey showed that most of the children are within Northern States of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, where Boko Haram insurgency had disrupted academic activities. (NAN)