UBEC unlocks N100bn funds, reaches 8.7m learners in one year

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is making significant strides in transforming Nigeria's basic education sector, as evidenced by the unlocking of over N100 billion in funds and the reach of its interventions to 8.7 million learners in just one year. This achievement, highlighted during the commission's 29th quarterly meeting, signifies a departure from 'business as usual' towards a more systematic and coordinated reform nationwide, aligning with the 'Renewed Hope Agenda.'

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In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and through joint interventions by SUBEBs and UBEC, we have impacted more than 8.7 million learners within just one year.

As reported by The Punch, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, detailed how joint interventions by State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) and UBEC have led to tangible improvements. These include the distribution of instructional materials, enhancements in learning environments, provision of WASH facilities and furniture, and the training of nearly 500,000 teachers. The fact that 95% of projects have been completed within 2025 points to a more efficient and timely delivery of educational interventions.

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These are students who have benefited from the instructional materials distributed, the improvement in learning conditions, the wash facilities, the furniture, as well as almost 500,000 teachers who have been trained.

A key driver of this progress is the strategic adoption of digitalization. Garba emphasized that digitalization is not merely about classroom tools but is central to the reform of management and processes within basic education. This focus on digitally-enabled coordination is crucial for improving planning, accountability, and overall performance across the sector. The commitment to fully digitalize basic education action plans from 2026 onwards indicates a forward-looking approach.

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Throughout 2025, you must agree with me when I said the focus has shifted from business as usual in basic education to a more systematic, coordinated, and large-scale reform nationwide.

The increased utilization of funds by over 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory demonstrates improved collaboration and a more effective channeling of resources. This concerted effort, driven by a clear vision and robust coordination, is essential for strengthening Nigeria's educational institutions and ensuring that millions of learners receive the quality education they deserve. The progress reported by UBEC offers a hopeful outlook for the future of basic education in the country.

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We have unlocked over N100bn that was previously unaccessed by SUBEBs. Now over 30 states and FCT are actively drawing from and using the fund more actively and effectively.