The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed that over half of the children displaced by conflict in Northeast Nigeria remain out of school, underscoring the urgent need to address educational disparities in the region. This was disclosed by the UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Borno State, Joseph Senesie, during the 2025 International Day of Education event at the University of Maiduguri, Borno State. Speaking on this year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Education – Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” Senesie highlighted the importance of bridging the gap in educational access, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas.

“More than half of all displaced children in Northeast Nigeria are out of school. For many children, the right to education has still not translated into the right to learn,” Senesie stated. He emphasized that while education is widely embraced in Nigeria, significant gaps persist in ensuring quality and inclusive learning opportunities for disadvantaged children, particularly in rural areas affected by the decade-long insurgency.

Senesie outlined UNICEF’s efforts in collaboration with the Borno State government to modernize education and improve access through digital initiatives. He pointed to the successful rollout of the Nigeria Learning Passport, a digital platform that has already enrolled over 38,000 learners and trained 102 teachers in Borno State alone. Across 18 states, more than 30,000 teachers have received training in digital literacy and pedagogy, further enhancing educational delivery. Senesie called for increased investment in digital learning to ensure Nigeria’s children are prepared for the future. “Digital platforms are crucial avenues for increased access to knowledge and skills acquisition, which is mandatory for a better future,” he said.

Borno State Commissioner of Education, Lawan Wakilbe, also addressed the event, urging students to embrace technology as a tool for innovation and excellence. “The future is technology. Every sector today has incorporated it in one way or another. As leaders of tomorrow, you must start using it in your pursuit of excellence,” he said. Both UNICEF and the Borno State government reaffirmed their commitment to expanding access to education for children affected by conflict, with a focus on leveraging technology to create sustainable learning solutions.