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MINNA, Nigeria (NAN) - The Niger government has planned to invest N300 billion in overhauling the educational sector to align with current global best practices.
Governor Umaru Bago made this announcement on Tuesday in Minna during the groundbreaking ceremony for the enhancement of basic education infrastructure, with Marafa Basic School serving as the initial project.
Bago stated that plans have been finalized to expand and renovate schools with N100 billion allocated for 2025.
Additionally, another N100 billion will be designated for the renovation and transformation of schools into mega-schools.
The governor further explained that the state government is dedicating N5 billion to the expansion and upgrade of 25 existing nomadic schools while also addressing Quranic and Tsangaya schools.
Bago stated that N5 billion is earmarked for children with special needs over the next five years.
He emphasized that education is a fundamental human right, asserting, "Every child deserves access to education."
The governor indicated that the state has made education free and compulsory at the basic level.
He also revealed that the government plans to provide one million computers and tablets for learning in all public schools to ensure students keep pace with current global standards.
Bago mentioned that the new Niger Agenda aims to provide support to all citizens of the state at every level.
He expressed gratitude for the collaboration and ongoing support of the Universal Basic Education Board in enhancing basic education.
Furthermore, Bago highlighted that through the state's agricultural initiative, a five percent levy will be imposed on all agro-allied products to fund education, with an anticipated N200 billion to be accrued.
In his comments, the executive chairman of the Niger Universal Basic Education Board, Muhammad Ibrahim, praised Bago for his significant efforts in the education sector through the new Niger agenda.
He noted that upon completion, the revamped Marafa Basic School will feature 128 classrooms, five e-libraries, and two basic science laboratories, among other facilities.
The Commissioner for Basic Education, Asabe Hadiza-Mohammed, lauded the governor's vision for the education sector.
