Zonal chairmen of the Parents-Teachers Associations of Federal Unity Schools across Nigeria have rejected a proposal by the federal government to privatise or concession the nation’s Unity Schools, saying the plan threatens affordable education, national unity and the future of millions of children.
In a news release dated Wednesday, July 1, 2026, signed by the Zonal Coordinator of the Conference of Chairmen, Parents-Teachers Associations of Federal Unity Schools, Ayopo Somefun and made available to Journalists, the Conference of Chairmen of PTAs of Federal Unity Schools said it is aligning with the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, which has also raised concerns over the proposal. The group called on the government to “immediately suspend any policy that may lead to the privatisation of Federal Unity Schools.”
The PTA leaders said they have followed reports on a proposed concession of King’s College, Lagos, and the concerns expressed by ASCSN.
“Unity Schools were established as symbols of national integration, bringing together children from every ethnic group, religion, and socio-economic background to learn, live, and grow as one Nigeria,” the release said. “For over five decades, these institutions have produced outstanding leaders in government, business, academia, medicine, engineering, the military, and other professions.”
The group warned that privatisation would lead to “exorbitant school fees” and put quality education beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians. “The children of civil servants, farmers, artisans, traders, and other low- and middle-income families will be the greatest victims,” it said.
It also expressed concern that privatisation could result in job losses or unfavourable conditions for thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff. The group said commercial interests could replace educational values and erode the founding vision of the schools. “These schools are national assets and must never become profit-making ventures,” it said.
Instead of concession or privatisation, the PTA leaders urged the federal government to invest more in education by rehabilitating infrastructure, improving learning facilities, recruiting more qualified teachers, strengthening security and enhancing staff welfare.
They also called on Old Students’ Associations, corporate organisations, development partners and philanthropists to continue supporting Unity Schools through infrastructure projects, scholarships, research and educational development “without assuming ownership or management of these public institutions.”
“As representatives of parents whose children are directly affected, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the integrity and accessibility of Unity Schools,” the release said. “We are prepared to work with the Federal Government and all stakeholders to strengthen these schools rather than dismantle one of Nigeria’s most successful educational institutions.”
The group called on the president, the Minister of Education, members of the National Assembly, organised labour, parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, alumni associations and “all patriotic Nigerians” to reject any attempt to privatise or concession Unity Schools.
“Unity Schools are not for sale. They are a national legacy that must be protected for generations yet unborn,” the statement said.
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