NAPPS criticises makeshift schools in religious buildings

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools has criticised the practice of private schools operating in shared spaces with religious buildings across the country.

During a press conference to introduce the newly appointed NAPPS Nigeria Board of Trustees and the newly approved 2023 NAPPS Constitution, the National President of NAPPS, Mr Yomi Odubela, addressed concerns regarding this issue.

He explained the association’s expectations for the new Board of Trustees and emphasised the need for private schools to operate in independent, purpose-built facilities that meet the highest educational standards.

Otubela said, “We must uphold minimum standards for operating private schools in Nigeria. Some unacceptable practices include the improper arrangement of private schools sharing spaces with religious buildings, a lack of qualified teachers, and a general disregard for educational integrity. As a governing body, we expect the Board of Trustees to lead by example, setting a standard of excellence and professionalism. Mediocrity should not have a place in our educational system.”
He added that NAPPS would continue to advocate the advancement of private education, ensuring quality standards, promoting better working conditions for private school operators, and collaborating with government agencies to improve educational policies in the country.

“NAPPS Nigeria remains fully committed to foster progress in educational development and quality pedagogy, ensuring that our association continues to be a pillar of excellence and positive transformation in the educational landscape of Nigeria.”

He revealed that the newly appointed Board of Trustees and the 2023 NAPPS Constitution had both received formal approval from the Corporate Affairs Commission, signaling the beginning of a renewed leadership structure focused on improving educational standards and fostering unity within Nigeria’s private education sector.
“NAPPS Nigeria has successfully had its new Board of Trustees recognised and approved by the Corporate Affairs Commission, following a thorough review of the governance process. This development comes after concerns over previous BOT appointments that did not adhere to the association’s constitutionally mandated procedures.

“As part of the reforms, the CAC de-recognized previous BOT members and officially acknowledged the new leadership structure, which was ratified during NAPPS Nigeria’s National Delegates Congress held on February 15, 2024.
The congress, which included representatives from the National Executive Council and state chapters, was pivotal in securing the legitimacy of the new board.”

The newly approved NAPPS Nigeria Board of Trustees members are, Chairman, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North East), Alhaji Abdulmumuni Kundak;  Secretary, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South South), Dr (Mrs.) Edna Opara;

Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North West), Dr Alhaji Rabiu Abdulkadir; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North Central), Pst. (Mrs.) Tabitha Salaudeen; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South South), Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Odubo; Assistant Secretary, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South East), Mr Udochukwu Jen;

Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT, Alhaji Ibrahim Yelwa; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South East), Arch. Samuel Onweluzo;    Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North East), Alhaji Ali Misau; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North Central) Comr. Idakpo Jude; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South West), Safiriyu Ganiyu Idowu; Trustee, NAPPS Nigeria BOT (South West), Ogunyeye Obafemi Thaddeus;

NAPPS Nigeria BOT (North West), Alhaji Lawal Sayyadi – Trustee.
Otubela said, “This new leadership structure, which is in full compliance with NAPPS Nigeria’s constitution, marks a turning point for the association and is set to enhance advocacy efforts for private schools nationwide.

“As part of its ongoing commitment to improving educational standards, NAPPS Nigeria will host the NAPPS International Conference and Exhibition (NICE 2024) from November 20-21, 2024 in Calabar, Cross River State. The theme for this year’s conference is “Illuminate, Innovate, Elevate: Breaking Barriers in the Education Sector for National Development.”

He said that in addition to the International Conference, NAPPS Nigeria would also hold its National Delegates Conference on November 21, 2024, at the International Conference Centre in Calabar.