By joshua Abuja Schools Association, National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, meet Senator Ndoma-Egba
The representatives of the Abuja Schools Association (ASA) and the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), FCT Chapter, recently paid a courtesy visit to Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, OFR, CON, LL.D., SAN, to brief him on ongoing advocacy efforts concerning the growing challenges facing private schools in the Federal Capital Territory.
The delegation explained that private schools continue to face increasing pressure from multiple taxation, overlapping regulatory charges, and repeated levies imposed by Area Councils and various FCT agencies. These challenges, they said, have become a major concern for school owners, with some schools already facing litigation and significant financial strain.
NAPPS noted that it has long served as a bridge between private schools and regulatory authorities. With ASA now actively involved in advocacy on behalf of schools, both associations agreed on the importance of working together and presenting a united voice on issues affecting the sector.
Speaking on behalf of NAPPS, the FCT President, Mrs. Dorothy Okwuenu, highlighted several concerns, including the recurring introduction of taxes and levies by successive administrations under different names, overlapping charges from multiple government agencies, and the recently proposed five percent levy on each child’s school fees per term.
She stressed that private education is highly capital intensive and receives little institutional support despite the significant role private schools play in bridging infrastructure gaps, and expanding access to quality education.
Concerns were raised about arbitrary assessments and billing practices by some government agencies, noting that schools are often issued widely varying charges without clear or consistent assessment criteria.
Another issue discussed was the conflict between Area Council bye-laws and FCT regulations. The delegation observed that although certain bye-laws have been declared invalid by the courts, enforcement actions continue, leading to multiple demands on schools and creating uncertainty within the sector.
Particular concern was expressed over the treatment of schools by some enforcement agencies. The groups cited instances where school buses conveying children were stopped, impounded, or subjected to enforcement actions, causing disruption to learning and distress to students and parents. The associations argued that children should not be exposed to harassment or become unintended victims of regulatory disputes involving schools.
Following a reference by the ASA Chairperson, Mr. Olumide Omotoye, to the recent National Assembly Public Hearing on issues affecting private education, discussions further underscored the need for a clear and harmonised framework for regulating private schools in the FCT.
In the course of deliberations, the associations identified several priority areas for reform. They include: Elimination of multiple taxation and overlapping levies; Development of a unified schedule of approved charges applicable to all private schools; Creation of education support mechanisms, such as grants, low interest financing, and tax incentives for private educational institutions; Harmonisation of FCT and Area Council regulations to eliminate duplication and uncertainty; and Greater recognition of the role private schools play in supporting national education objectives.
Responding, Senator Ndoma-Egba, a renowned legal luminary and highly respected political figure in the country, commended both associations for setting aside institutional boundaries to pursue a common cause.
Drawing from his experience as a legal practitioner, former Senate Leader, education advocate, and Chairman of Start-Rite Schools Advisory Board, he acknowledged the concerns raised and noted that he had a clear appreciation of the realities facing private schools.
The Senator, who is also the current Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), emphasised that collaboration remains the strongest tool available to the private education sector, while encouraging ASA and NAPPS to deepen their partnership and continue speaking with one voice.
He advised against individual engagements or separate negotiations that could weaken collective advocacy efforts, stressing that significant progress is more likely when stakeholders remain united around shared objectives.
He further provided strategic guidance on strengthening engagement with policymakers and relevant authorities, encouraging the associations to continue pursuing constructive dialogue, evidence-based advocacy, and coordinated action. He also noted the importance of securing a formal audience with the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency Nyesom Wike, describing him as a leader who is attentive to stakeholder concerns and open to engagements that support the development of key sectors such as education.
Senator Ndoma-Egba assured the delegation of his continued support in facilitating this engagement, emphasising that education remains one of the most important investments any society can make and that private schools play an indispensable role in expanding access to quality education and developing the nation’s human capital.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by both associations to strengthen collaboration and continue constructive engagement aimed at creating a more supportive, predictable, and equitable regulatory environment for private schools in FCT.