Obaze Again, Calls for Constructive Partnership Between State and Church

www.odogwublog.com reports that Mr. Oseloka H. Obaze the immediate-past Secretary to Anambra State Government and a 2017 PDP governorship aspirant has called for intrusive partnership between the state and missions in providing qualitative and affordable education. Mr. Obaze made the call on Tuesday while addressing the 2017 Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi at the Diocesan Church Centre (DCC), Nnewi.
Mr. Obaze while acknowledging that the constitution calls for a separation church and state, noted that such a provision did not foreclose the collaboration between both entities aimed at delivering services and addressing unmet needs in education, healthcare and social welfare.
Obaze decried Anambra State ongoing slippage from its top ranking in NECO and WASSCE examinations.  He disclosed that only two out of the thirty-six states of the federation, Sokoto and Kwara have met the United Nations recommended allocation of 26% of national and subnational budgets to education.  He said that moving forward, Anambra State must commit 26% of her annual budget to education. He also proposed dedicating 10% of the 26% to supporting mission and parochial schools. Obaze also called for a strategic approach to educating Nigeria's 10.5 million out of school children and empowering Nigerian youths with vocational education that guarantees employment.
The Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Nnewi Rt. Rev. Godwin Okpala, who was pleased that Mr. Obaze graced the synod, advised current and aspiring policymakers to emulate Mr. Obaze's focus and prioritization of education and youth empowerment policy thrusts.
Mr. Obaze made an undisclosed donation to support the Bishop and the Nnewi Diocese towards building the Pentecost University and providing quality and affordable education.