A leading mathematics expert has sounded the alarm on the growing crisis of poor mathematics performance among Nigerian students and its devastating impact on careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Mrs. Ifeyinwa Madu, Chief Lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi and a researcher at Morgan State University, USA, highlighted the urgent need for reforms in mathematics education. Speaking in Bauchi during an exclusive interview with Daily Post Nigeria, Madu disclosed that the persistent failure in mathematics is undermining the nation’s ambition to build a competitive STEM workforce.
Citing official data from the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Madu revealed that only about 72% of candidates passed both English and Mathematics, with over 500,000 students falling short of the minimum standards required to pursue STEM-related courses. This alarming trend, she said, threatens Nigeria’s development goals and its ability to meet global technological advancements.
“The failure in mathematics is killing students’ dreams in STEM fields,” Madu emphasized. “Without a solid grasp of mathematics, students cannot effectively pursue careers in engineering, computer science, accounting, and other critical disciplines that require quantitative skills.”
According to Mrs. Madu, the issue is complex and cannot be pinned solely on teachers. She identified weak educational foundations from early schooling, outdated and rigid curricula, inadequate teacher training, and poor policy implementation as major contributors.
“Societal attitudes also play a huge role,” she explained. “Maths is often feared and stigmatized by students, parents, and even some educators, leading to lack of interest and motivation. Moreover, some parents idolize quick-money schemes and fraudsters, discouraging the discipline and hard work required to excel in STEM.”
Madu stressed that reversing this trend requires collective responsibility from all stakeholders — parents, students, educators, government agencies, and the private sector.
A key recommendation from the expert is an immediate review and overhaul of the mathematics curriculum by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). She advocated for a curriculum that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical applications rather than rote memorization.
Furthermore, Madu urged the government to improve teachers’ welfare by offering competitive salaries and better working conditions to attract and retain top talent in mathematics education.
“Motivated and well-trained teachers are the backbone of any educational reform,” she said. “Investing in teachers is investing in the future of Nigeria’s STEM workforce.”
Mrs. Madu also warned that Nigeria’s industries are already feeling the impact of this educational shortfall. “Companies in tech, engineering, finance, and research are struggling to find qualified professionals who can handle complex quantitative tasks,” she noted.
She appealed to Nigerian STEM professionals in the diaspora to contribute to rebuilding the country’s education system through mentorship programs, knowledge exchange, and funding educational initiatives.
With the global economy increasingly driven by science and technology, Nigeria risks being left behind if urgent actions are not taken to address the maths failure crisis. Mrs. Madu concluded with a call for nationwide awareness campaigns to change perceptions about mathematics and encourage youth participation in STEM.
“Maths is not just a subject; it is the foundation of innovation and national progress. We must act now before it’s too late,” she warned.