President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the ongoing education reforms spearheaded by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing them as a model for other states and levels of government to follow.
The President made these remarks during an Iftar Dinner Party held on Saturday in Abuja to mark the end of Ramadan fasting.
Acknowledging the impact-driven reforms in Edo’s education sector, President Tinubu stated that Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to revitalising public education serves as a wake-up call for others to redouble their efforts towards national development. He urged leaders across the country to take inspiration from the governor’s dedication.
Emphasising the need for pragmatic leadership, the President criticised the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki, accusing it of failing to leave behind any meaningful legacy in the education sector despite public claims of progress.
According to Tinubu, governance should be about sustainable policies that contribute to the nation’s future, rather than superficial accolades.
President Tinubu remarked, “I proudly watched Okpebholo, the Governor of Edo State, walking through schools, witnessing firsthand the state of education. His predecessor boasted of Edo being a leading state in education, yet had nothing tangible to show for it.”
Senator Monday Okpebholo recently declared a state of emergency in the education sector, citing the lack of tangible progress under the immediate past administration.
Within his first 100 days in office, the governor has: Recruited over 5,000 qualified teachers; Begun the reconstruction of dilapidated school buildings; Implemented policies to create a more conducive learning environment.
His efforts are already transforming the educational landscape, with many parents opting to transfer their children from private institutions to public schools, a testament to the reforms taking shape.
As Edo State’s education revival gains momentum, stakeholders are urging other states to adopt similar strategies. Many believe that replicating this model across Nigeria could be a significant step towards achieving the country’s educational literacy goals.
