The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has clarified that the group operating as the “National Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of Federal Unity Colleges” is neither recognised nor authorised by the Ministry. This group does not represent the PTAs across the 118 Federal Unity Colleges nationwide. The Ministry made this statement through Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations.
Recently, the National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) and staff members of King’s College, Lagos, expressed concerns over a 35-year concession imposed on the school to its old boys. They questioned the rationale behind relinquishing control of a premium unity school and demanded clarity on the reasons behind the concession. This situation led to the FME’s clarification on the unauthorised association.
The FME emphasised that the association lacks the mandate to speak for the colleges, parents, or guardians. Consequently, any statement, directive, appeal, or communication issued by the association has no official standing and should be disregarded by the public. Parents and guardians are advised to rely exclusively on official updates from the FME and individual school management teams regarding academic activities and student welfare.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, urged parents to ensure their children return to school, confirming that the 2026/2027 academic session has officially commenced. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining a safe, conducive, and supportive learning environment in all Federal Unity Colleges. This assurance comes amidst concerns from parents regarding the concession and its potential impact on the schools.
Concerned parents have called on the Minister of Education and the ministry to address the issues raised by NAPTAN concerning the 35-year concession forced on King’s College, Lagos. Mr. Agunbiade Thomas urged the minister to respect the laws establishing the college and other unity colleges across the country. He also called on the federal government not to stampede NAPTAN.
A widow and mother of two students at King’s College, Lagos, Mrs. Patience Anthony, expressed her concerns about the potential takeover by the old boys. She stated that many parents chose the college for their children because of the quality education at a reduced cost. Handing over the college to the old boys would make learning at the college unaffordable for the average Nigerian parent.
The situation at King’s College, Lagos, highlights the challenges faced by Federal Unity Colleges in Nigeria. Parents are worried about the impact of the concession on the quality of education and accessibility. The FME’s disowning of the unauthorised PTA association underscores the need for clear communication and adherence to established laws and regulations in the education sector.
Key points
- The Federal Ministry of Education has disowned the National Parent-Teacher Association operating as the “National PTA of Federal Unity Colleges”, citing lack of authorisation.
- The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has urged parents to ensure their children return to school, confirming the commencement of the 2026/2027 academic session.
- Concerned parents have called for the minister to address issues raised by NAPTAN regarding the 35-year concession imposed on King’s College, Lagos.
