The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to reform and strengthen the regulation of private and other non-state schools through a public hearing on the draft Lagos State Policy on Non-State Schools (LSPNS). The session, held at the NUT Pavilion, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together about 200 stakeholders—including private school associations, homeschoolers, virtual school operators, NGOs, faith-based organisations and education professionals—to review and contribute to the proposed policy framework.

Chairman of the Committee and Director of Private Education and Special Programmes at the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, reiterated the commitment of the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, to developing a holistic, inclusive and sustainable policy that reflects the interests of all stakeholders. He assured school owners of fairness and objectivity, noting that the policy aims to balance high standards of education with an enabling environment for schools to thrive.

Ogunmuyiwa explained that after incorporating stakeholder feedback, the final draft would be submitted to the Commissioner for approval and subsequently forwarded to the State Executive Council for consideration before the governor’s assent. He emphasised that all substantive contributions would be integrated, provided they align with the goals of quality, equity and sustainability in Lagos education.

Secretary of the Committee and Head of the Research Unit at OEQA, David Ojelade, described the public hearing as a defining moment for education in Lagos. He explained that the growing role of non-state schools in increasing access, reducing pressure on public schools and introducing innovative learning models makes it essential to establish a harmonised regulatory framework. He added that the LSPNS aligns with national standards and clearly spells out roles, responsibilities and collaboration pathways between the government and private providers.

Southern Region Lead for the Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE), Dr. James Fadokun, praised Lagos as a South-West model in education reform. He commended the state for its commitment to the policy despite it being derived from a federal framework and expressed confidence that stakeholders’ concerns—especially those aimed at improving outcomes for learners—would be duly considered. He also applauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising education under the THEMES+ agenda.

Throughout the session, stakeholders made oral and written submissions, raised concerns and sought clarifications from the drafting committee. Key issues included calls for a review of tax obligations to prevent multiple taxation of schools, exemptions for charitable and faith-based institutions, and the option for schools to obtain approval as specialised institutions—science, arts or commercial—to enhance excellence and streamline operations.

Once finalised, the Lagos State Policy on Non-State Schools is expected to improve oversight, strengthen quality assurance and deepen collaboration between the government and non-state education providers, ultimately advancing the best interests of the Nigerian child.