Awolowo, Jakande gave us free education, never saw it as achievement — Laide Olabanji

Nollywood actor Laide Olabanji has criticized the Federal Government’s student loan scheme, arguing that previous leaders like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Lateef Jakande provided free education without treating it as a significant accomplishment. In a video posted to social media, the actor explained his perspective on the state of education in Nigeria.

Comparing the current policy to the free education programs initiated by Awolowo and Jakande, Olabanji questioned why access to education should necessitate students taking out loans. Both Awolowo and Jakande implemented free education initiatives that allowed many Nigerians to pursue quality schooling without financial strain, according to Olabanji.

"Awolowo and Lateef Jakande gave us free education and never saw it as an achievement, but you guys have created student loan and now see it as an achievement," he stated. His remarks come as debates continue over the Federal Government’s student loan initiative, which aims to offer financial support to students pursuing higher education.

Olabanji’s comments have generated reactions online, especially regarding the rising cost of tertiary education and the efficacy of student loans as a solution to the difficulties faced by students and their families.