Niger Govt to spend N300bn on revamping education sector
The Niger State Government has announced plans to invest N300 billion in revamping the state’s educational sector to align with global best practices.
Governor Umaru Bago made this disclosure on Tuesday in Minna during the groundbreaking ceremony for the revitalisation of basic education infrastructure, with Marafa Basic School serving as the pilot scheme.
Mr Bago stated that arrangements had been finalised to expand and renovate schools with an initial N100 billion investment in 2025. He further revealed that an additional N100 billion would be allocated for the remodelling and upgrading of schools into mega-schools.
The governor also emphasised the government’s commitment to inclusive quality education, announcing an investment of N5 billion to expand and upgrade 25 existing nomadic schools, as well as to support interventions in Quranic and Tsangaya schools.
Additionally, Mr Bago confirmed that N5 billion had been earmarked to support children with special needs over the next five years. He reiterated that education is a fundamental human right, affirming, “Every child deserves to have an education.”
The governor reaffirmed that education is now free and compulsory at the basic level across the state.
As part of efforts to integrate technology into learning, Mr Bago announced the provision of one million computers and tablets for public school students, ensuring they remain in step with contemporary global educational standards.
He highlighted the state’s “New Niger Agenda,” which aims to provide relief and development opportunities for all residents.
The governor also commended the collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) and acknowledged its continued support for the advancement of basic education in the state.
Furthermore, Mr Bago disclosed that under the state’s agro initiative, a five per cent levy on all agro-allied produce had been introduced for education funding, with an estimated N200 billion expected to be generated.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Niger Universal Basic Education Board, Muhammad Ibrahim, praised Mr Bago’s significant strides in the education sector through his New Niger Agenda. He stated that the revamped Marafa Basic School would feature 128 classrooms, five e-libraries, and two basic science laboratories, among other modern facilities.
Commissioner for Basic Education, Asabe Hadiza-Mohammed, also lauded the governor’s vision and commitment to transforming the education sector in Niger State.
