Firm targets out-of-school crisis, mobilises private sector support

Amid Nigeria’s worsening out-of-school children crisis, estimated at 18.3 million, Browncon Group of Companies has pledged to deploy private sector resources and interventions to help reverse the trend.

The commitment was announced during the company’s 10th anniversary gala in Abuja on Saturday, which also featured the launch of its book, “Build With Courage: Faith, Discipline and the Journey of Becoming,” and the Browncon Care Foundation.

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According to UNICEF’s 2024 Situation Analysis, 94 per cent of out-of-school children in Nigeria are multidimensionally poor, with figures exceeding 50 per cent in seven northern states, underscoring the depth of the crisis.

Speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the group, Dr. Samuel Ndubuisi-Brown said, “With 10.2 million children of primary school age and 8.1 million of secondary school age currently denied education in Nigeria, we face an emergency that demands urgent private sector intervention”.

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According to him, proceeds from the newly launched book would be channelled towards strengthening Nigeria’s education system and addressing the out-of-school crisis.

On the newly launched foundation, the company said it would focus on the most marginalized groups, including rural children, girls from impoverished households, and children with disabilities, who make up the bulk of Nigeria’s out-of-school population.

Dr. Ndubuisi-Brown further called on the Nigerian government to intensify support for private sector players, stressing that entrepreneurs are critical to economic growth and sustainability.

He acknowledged ongoing government efforts but urged the introduction of more enabling policies to help businesses thrive and contribute to national development.

The Browncon CEO also raised concerns about Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change, describing the country as facing significant existential risks.

He disclosed that Nigeria requires an estimated $200 billion in private capital to address climate challenges and transition towards sustainability.

“As a company, we are working to mobilize private capital into key sectors that will help reduce climate risks and drive sustainable development across Nigeria and Africa,” he said.

Marking the milestone, Dr. Ndubuisi-Brown described the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment, noting that the launch of the Browncon Care Foundation represents a strategic step towards giving back to society.

He also extended appreciation to investors, clients, and partners for their support over the past decade, adding that the initiative signals a new phase of impact-driven engagement across Nigeria and Africa.

Also speaking, Lead Programme Officer at the Browncon Care Foundation, Esther Nwokafor, described the initiative as a purpose-driven platform designed to empower communities and individuals.

She outlined the foundation’s four core focus areas, healthcare, education, empowerment, and ESG advocacy, emphasising its commitment to sustainability and social impact.

Highlighting education as a priority, she said, “We are very passionate about helping children who are out of school to return to the classroom and ensuring they remain in school.
Education is a powerful tool to transform lives, and we are committed to supporting children and communities in reaching their full potential.”

Nwokafor added that programmes under the foundation are set to commence immediately and called on individuals, organisations, and volunteers to support the initiative through partnerships, sponsorships, and active participation.

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