Senator Abubakar Girei, a prominent politician from Adamawa State, has called for the reintroduction of craft schools across Nigeria to enhance skill development and economic growth.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in Yola, Girei emphasized the importance of reviving educational institutions that focus on practical skills and trades, which he believes are crucial for national development.

"We must also address social roots. Education is vital. In our days, we had craft schools where we learned trades. Those are gone," Girei lamented, highlighting how the absence of such institutions has created a gap in Nigeria's educational system.

The senator cited former Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako's administration (2007-2014) as an example of successful implementation of skill centers. According to Girei, these centers produced skilled workers who were subsequently employed by major corporations, including the Dangote Group.

"Unfortunately, these skill centers are no longer fully operational," Girei noted, urging both state and federal governments to prioritize education that combines literacy with practical life skills.

In addition to advocating for craft schools, Senator Girei addressed concerns regarding the Federal Government's student loan scheme. While acknowledging that many students and institutions have benefited from the program, he expressed concern over reports of fraudulent practices in the disbursement process.

"The program is laudable and should be sustained, but we must eliminate corruption and make it work," he emphasized, calling for greater transparency and accountability in the management of the scheme.

Education experts have long argued that Nigeria's focus on theoretical education at the expense of vocational and technical skills has contributed to high unemployment rates among graduates. The revival of craft schools could potentially address this imbalance by equipping young Nigerians with marketable skills that meet industry demands.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and youth unemployment, Senator Girei's call for a return to skill-based education resonates with ongoing national conversations about educational reform and workforce development.