By Samuel Anayo.
The 2025 budgets of Enugu and Anambra states highlight two vastly different approaches to prioritizing education. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, a lawyer by profession, has allocated an impressive N320.609 billion to education, representing 33.2% of the state’s total budget.
In contrast, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, a renowned professor, has committed only N36 billion to education, a mere 5.9% of his state’s total budget.Governor Mbah’s decision to allocate a significant portion of the budget to education underscores his commitment to fostering long-term development. By dedicating over a third of Enugu State’s budget to education, he demonstrates a belief in its transformative power to drive economic growth, reduce inequality, and improve the quality of life for future generations.
This focus suggests an understanding that investing in education is a strategic move to build human capital and secure sustainable development.On the other hand, Governor Soludo’s allocation raises questions about the state’s priorities. As an academic and economist, one might expect Soludo to champion education as a critical driver of development. However, the relatively small portion of the budget allocated to this sector suggests competing priorities or fiscal constraints within Anambra State. While it is possible that Soludo’s administration has other innovative strategies for education reform beyond financial investment, the limited allocation may hinder critical advancements in infrastructure, teacher training, and student support services.
The stark difference in budgetary allocations reflects broader governance philosophies. Governor Mbah’s substantial investment in education positions Enugu State as a leader in human capital development, while Governor Soludo’s approach invites debate about the effectiveness of education spending in Anambra. Ultimately, the impact of these decisions will be measured by the quality of education delivered and the long-term outcomes for the states’ citizens.
Samuel Anayochi writes from Jos
