Patrick Ifon, the president, National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck, Eket, Akwa Ibom, has decried the number of out-of-school children in the state.

Mr Ifon, who spoke at an event to commemorate the 2025 International Literacy Day (ILD) in Eket on Saturday, urged Gov. Umo Eno to take steps towards reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.

Represented by the spokesperson, George McAnthony, the president said it was worrisome that many children were out of school despite the free and compulsory universal basic education policy.

He urged the state government to make it mandatory for every school-aged child in Akwa Ibom to have access to basic education and literacy.

It would be recalled that ILD is celebrated annually on Sept. 8, and the theme of the 2025 edition is: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”

Mr Ifon further stated that the association had donated books, educational materials and essential medications to children in the state to commemorate the day.

“Illiteracy is one of the greatest barriers to empowerment and community development. This is worsened by the economic hardship in the country,” he said.

He said that UNICEF recently reported that no fewer than 10.2 million school-aged children were out of school.

“UNESCO estimates that the figure is over 18.3 million when adolescents are included. Available statistics indicate that more children live on the streets and in overcrowded homes.

“This development leaves many children in vulnerable states, meaning that they can be exploited and abused,” he said.

According to him, the challenges manifest in declining school completion rates, limited digital literacy, and reduced employment opportunities.

He urged parents and guardians to show responsibility by enrolling their children and wards in schools in the interest of their future.

(NAN)