By Kehinde Ibrahim Kehinde
THE Access Bank UK, Fifth Chukker, UNICEF and the Kaduna State Government have renewed their commitment to expanding access to quality education for vulnerable children in Nigeria, reinforcing a partnership that has delivered educational opportunities to thousands of underserved children over the past 15 years.
The renewed commitment was highlighted during the Access UK Polo Day held in London and hosted by Access Bank UK. The annual event celebrated more than a decade and a half of collaboration aimed at improving educational outcomes for children in underserved communities, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
The initiative, which began as a small intervention designed to provide educational opportunities for about 100 children, has since grown into one of the continent’s notable education-focused partnerships. According to the organisers, the Access Bank Fifth Chukker School in Kaduna State and its associated educational programmes have positively impacted more than 14,000 children through investments in learning infrastructure, educational resources and student support services.
Since its establishment, the school has continued to expand its reach and improve access to education. Between 2018 and 2026, it recorded 2,538 graduates, with girls accounting for more than 54 per cent of the graduating students, reflecting efforts to promote gender inclusion and improve educational opportunities for female children.
The programme currently provides foundational learning for over 1,000 pupils annually through a curriculum designed to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills. Organisers said the intervention has contributed to a reported 15 per cent improvement in learning outcomes, while many graduates have secured admission into reputable secondary schools. Teachers participating in the programme also benefit from continuous professional development, digital learning resources and improved teaching facilities aimed at enhancing classroom delivery.
Speaking during the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna described education as one of the most effective tools for transforming lives and communities.
He said the initiative had exceeded its original objectives, growing from a programme targeting 100 children to one that has reached more than 14,000 beneficiaries. Ogbonna expressed optimism that the partnership would continue to expand its reach, with a target of impacting 28,000 children in the coming years.
According to him, sustained investment in education creates long-term social and economic benefits, while acknowledging the contributions of donors and development partners whose support has sustained the programme over the years.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening access to education across the state. He described education as a critical investment in human capital and commended the longstanding partnership between Access Bank, Fifth Chukker and UNICEF for restoring hope to children from disadvantaged communities.
