Mimiko Seeks Greater Investment in Health, Education to Drive National Development

Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has urged the federal and state governments to scale up investment in public health and education, warning that Nigeria’s development will remain hindered unless urgent reforms are implemented in both sectors.

Mimiko made the call while delivering the convocation lecture of the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, Kogi State. The lecture, titled “Ill-health and Illiteracy: Siblings’ Alliance Against Development,” was made available to journalists in Akure on Friday.

The former governor noted that Nigeria’s human development indicators still “paint a dismal picture,” despite recent fiscal reforms that have increased government revenue.

He expressed concern that poor learning outcomes and an overstretched health system continue to limit the country’s productivity and growth.

He acknowledged ongoing policy efforts by the present administration in both sectors but stressed that the government must accelerate implementation and ensure sustained investment.

“The improved accruals from subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and the expected commencement of tax reforms in 2026 present a rare opportunity for governments at all levels to redirect more funds to human capital development,” Mimiko said.

He explained that meaningful national progress cannot be achieved without a healthy and well-educated population, adding that developed nations have consistently prioritized human capital as the foundation of their long-term prosperity.

Mimiko urged policymakers to channel more resources into strengthening primary healthcare, revitalizing public schools, training teachers, and ensuring equitable access to quality education.

He further called for a renewed commitment to addressing systemic barriers that hinder the nation’s development, warning that failure to act could worsen existing inequalities and stall economic advancement.

The convocation lecture formed part of activities marking the institution’s academic celebrations, attended by university administrators, government officials, and stakeholders in the education and health sectors.