Governors’ Forum Reaffirms ECD Commitment, Seeks Stronger State-Level Action on Human Capital

The Nigerian Governors' Forum (NGF) has reaffirmed the commitment of all 36 state governors to prioritize Early Childhood Development (ECD) as part of Nigeria's human capital development agenda. Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, the Director-General of the NGF, emphasized the importance of ECD, stating that it represents a critical window for a child's development, laying the foundation for health, learning, cognitive development, and future productivity.

He stressed that investing in ECD is not only an investment in children but also in Nigeria's overall human capital and long-term economic development.

Dr. Shittu highlighted that the effectiveness of national ECD policies will ultimately depend on their translation into concrete programs at the state and local government levels. He stressed the need for a coordinated, multisectoral approach involving all relevant sectors in addressing the complexity of early childhood development.

The consultative workshop aims to help states develop state-specific, practical, and implementable plans that reflect their unique needs and institutional realities, moving beyond broad policy commitments to actionable plans.

The NGF emphasized the importance of implementation, financing, coordination, and accountability in the development of these plans. Dr. Shittu assured that the NGF Secretariat would continue to support states in strengthening their ECD systems and translating national priorities into sustainable subnational action. He reiterated that all 36 governors had reaffirmed their commitment to ECD at the NGF meeting held on June 17, 2026.

The NGF will continue to champion ECD as a development priority, facilitate shared learning among states, and work with partners to ensure coordinated and sustainable action at the state level.