Realizing SDG 4 for children through a rights-based approach to quality education in Nigeria: Lessons from South Africa and Uganda

This research examines the extent to which the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) is delivering inclusive and equitable quality education at all stages in Nigeria from a children's rights perspective. This article aims to appraise the extent to which international and regional human rights instruments protect the right to education. Utilising a doctrinal and comparative research methodology, the paper reveals a serious gap in terms of access, budget, infrastructure and accountability, especially in the terrorism affected states and among the socially backward classes. The paper contends that a rights-based approach informed by principles such as participation, non-discrimination, accountability and legal enforceability provides a more effective basis for realising SDG 4 in Nigeria. The study highlights the need to reinterpret educational policy through the lens of human rights to dismantle barriers such as institutional obstacles and attain equity as a means of realising Nigeria’s commitment to educating children.