Nigeria has reportedly lost its full participation status in the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) and will only attend this year’s event in China as an observer, according to education advocate and Educare CEO Alex Onyia.
Onyia shared his reaction on social media, calling the situation a “big shame” for the nation and attributing it to the Federal Ministry of Education’s failure to fund the team via the National Mathematical Centre for four straight years.
He stated, “Nigeria has been removed from the International Maths Olympiad, whose finals are taking place in Shanghai, China this July. It remains one of the world’s most esteemed academic contests.”
“It’s a big shame for Nigeria,” Onyia added.
The International Mathematical Olympiad is recognized as a premier global competition for secondary‑school math talent, held annually and drawing participants from many countries.
Nigerians voice disappointment
Sylvester commented online, “If the government can fund trips for climate conferences, frivolous meetings, reality shows or beauty pageants with thousands of delegates—including relatives and aides—then why can’t it support something that truly benefits youth education?”
Monakai blamed the nation’s educational woes on ineffective leadership and the quota system, saying, “You don’t grasp how illogical this country is. Awarding an education minister who never finished secondary school and expecting improvement is nonsense; the quota system continues to ruin Nigeria.”
MarthaDominic described the news as “disheartening and shameful,” arguing that entertainment and politics should never outweigh education. “BBN contestants, corrupt politicians, and other distractions must not take precedence over learning. We must do better as a nation.”
DJay criticised public officials, claiming they prioritize their children’s overseas education while neglecting local schools. “Those old men in power are a disgrace. They send their own kids to top academies abroad using funds meant for Nigeria’s education and infrastructure—shameful.”
Cletus questioned spending priorities, noting, “They have money for luxury cars, estacodes, and oversized delegations to irrelevant conferences, yet claim there’s no budget for education.”
At the time of reporting, the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Mathematical Centre had not issued any public response to the allegation.
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