According to data from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria faces a severe out-of-school crisis, with approximately 18.3 million children currently out of the classroom, including 8.1 million at the junior secondary school level. The research highlights the lack of fundamental learning resources and economic poverty as the primary drivers of school dropouts, with 65% of out-of-school children coming from the country’s poorest socio-economic households. To tackle this issue directly, the MTN Foundation is rolling out the 2026 edition of its initiative to provide learning support materials including textbooks, worksheets and digital resources to students across Nigeria.
The intervention in partnership with UNICEF and recipient states’ first ladies is set to begin on October 6, 2026, and will target 18 public secondary schools in Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Edo, Abia, Anambra, and Cross River,
The initiative will also provide secondary students with essentials comprising school bags, water bottles, and writing materials. This aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs that frequently force families to withdraw their children from formal education. The support is expected to help students arrive at school better prepared for lessons and participate more fully in classroom activities. It also forms part of efforts to improve retention by addressing some of the practical barriers that could prevent children from staying in school.
The students will also be introduced directly to basic digital courses on the MTN Skills Academy platform. This training will equip students with digital skills that will enhance their academic experience. The digital component also extends the intervention beyond the immediate handover, giving students access to additional learning opportunities as they continue their education.
Industry analysts regard collaborations between corporate organizations, international bodies, and state governments as a practical model for public education reform. Addressing resource deficits and providing more opportunities for digital inclusion. The partnership between the MTN Foundation, UNICEF and state stakeholders further demonstrates how collaboration between the private sector, international organisations and government can support efforts to address resource gaps and expand digital inclusion in public education.