ABUJA, Nigeria — The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has expressed concern over the failure of many state governments to domesticate the National Policy on Non-State Schools, warning that the delay is slowing education reforms and limiting efforts to improve access to quality education across the country.
The association said the policy was developed to provide a coordinated framework for the regulation, support and development of non-state schools, including privately owned educational institutions that play a significant role in Nigeria’s education system.
According to NAPPS, the lack of implementation at the state level has created inconsistencies in the regulation of private schools, making it difficult to achieve uniform standards and effectively implement education reforms. The association noted that adopting the policy would strengthen collaboration between governments and non-state education providers.
NAPPS maintained that proper domestication of the policy would improve quality assurance, promote accountability and encourage better learning outcomes for pupils and students. It added that clearer regulatory guidelines would also provide greater certainty for school proprietors while enhancing confidence among parents and other stakeholders.
The association further argued that non-state schools continue to complement government efforts by expanding access to education and reducing pressure on public schools. It therefore called on state governments to recognise the important contribution of private education providers in achieving national education goals.
Education stakeholders have repeatedly emphasised the need for stronger partnerships between governments and private school operators to address challenges such as access, infrastructure, teacher development and educational quality. NAPPS said implementing the national policy would provide a structured basis for such collaboration.
The association also urged policymakers to engage more closely with private school proprietors during the implementation process to ensure that the policy reflects practical realities and supports sustainable improvements across the education sector.
NAPPS reaffirmed its commitment to working with federal and state authorities to strengthen educational standards and promote policies that improve learning opportunities for children nationwide. It stressed that effective implementation of the National Policy on Non-State Schools would contribute to a more inclusive, well-regulated and responsive education system.
The association called on state governments yet to adopt the policy to take the necessary legislative and administrative steps to domesticate it, expressing confidence that coordinated implementation would support ongoing education reforms and enhance access to quality education throughout Nigeria.
