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Transforming education sector in Borno State – The Zulum example

Published

2 years ago

May 16, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Transforming education sector in Borno State – The Zulum example

By Chidi Omeje

Recently, the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State came under a media campaign of calumny aimed to smear his good image and distract his resolve to reinvigorate the lame-duck education sector he inherited in the state.

Through misinformation, mischief makers are spreading spurious allegations that some teachers in the state are being paid N7,000 monthly salaries in spite of the economic crunch in the country.

The architects of this and other fake news are careless to investigate and verify such claims before waxing their axes so as to avoid misleading the people on the remarkable feats achieved in the education sector in the last five years of Zulum’s stewardship of Borno state.

After a two-week intensive investigation, the Citizens’ Initiative for Security Awareness (CISA), an Abuja-based non-governmental organization, has exposed the underlying motives of those destabilizing the system. The research revealed that certain policies implemented by the Borno State Governor aimed at overhauling the troubled education sector have been obstructed by individuals who have benefited from the ongoing disarray for many years.

A group of CISA fact checkers deployed to Borno for the independent investigation, discovered that allegation is misleading. The fact remains that, based on Gov Zulum’s intervention, the majority of teachers who have been verified, retrained and newly recruited are now placed on minimum wage of N30,000 or more.

Sadly, this campaign is targeted at an astute academic and seasoned public administrator who exhibited great passion and concern for teachers’ welfare as well as demonstrated high political acumen to demystify the teaching profession to enable them to perform maximally towards meeting the educational needs of the modern society.

Arguably, the problem bedeviling the education sector ranging from teacher recruitment, retention, remuneration and decayed infrastructure pre-dated the Zulum administration owing to the political negligence, and flagrant abuse of national policy which allowed Local Education Authorities (LEAs), to fill employment gaps without recourse to best practices resulting to quantum of unqualified teachers and ghost workers in the state.

CISA has also found out that Education stands as a key pillar in the Borno State’s 25 -Year Development Plan; the 10 -Year Strategic Transformation Initiative, and the Infrastructure Development Master Plan, to which governor Zulum believes that a sound educational system driven by an adequately-paid and a highly-motivated staff, is necessary to drive the Borno Restoration Project (BRP).

To reposition the education sector and achieve the administration’s goals of sustainable social and economic development of the state, Zulum initiated viable reform programmes and restructure public institutions to herald Borno as one of the best educationally advance state in Nigeria.

In 2020, governor Zulum ordered the Ministry of Education to clean-up the mess of local education authorities.The ministry through its verification exercise and discovered that 15,823 out of the 18,451 teachers presented for verification are fit to teach, and 2,628 others were unqualified based of the requirements inline with national and global best practices.

Zulum established a Review Committee to appraise cases of candidates who did not appear in the previous verification exercise. The committee reaffirmed the findings of the earlier committee, and recommended 144 candidates to be relocated into the payroll based on merit.

Succinctly, the results of the competency test conducted by the Lawan Wakilbe committee revealed that 5,257 teachers passed, while 6,227 were found trainable and 4,339 failed. Therefore, the governor out of compassion decided not to throw to the bins those who failed the test, and directed that they should be placed on a monthly stipend pending their transfer to other sectors.

On new recruitment, the Wakilbe committee also recommended engagement of 3,000 out of the 19,313 candidates who applied as teachers, on N30,000 minimum wage.

To enhance teacher development, the Zulum administration in collaboration with the National Teachers Institute (NTI), implemented the Emergency Teachers Upgrade Programme (ETUP), to scale up the competence and pedagogy of trainable teachers for 3,524 candidates. At the end of the exercise, some 2,396 teachers passed, and 1,468 had been recommended for immediate engagement and retention on the minimum wage.

Furthermore; the Zulum administration successfully restructured the Teaching Service Board (TSB); the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), established the Senior Secondary Education Board (SSEB) and Arabic and Sangaya Education Board, all in a bid to repositioned the education sector on a solid pedestal.

In the same vein, Zulum has recently approved and released the sum of N1 billion for the training of 1,949 teachers found trainable following the competency test which revealed that out of the 15,823 teachers who sat for the test, only 5,257 passed; 6,227 performed below the required pass mark, but were considered trainable; while 4,339 others were found to be untrainable

In this regards, the governor approved the training of 1,949 teachers under the first phase of the programme at the College of Education, Waka Biu; Umar Ibn Ibrahim Elkanemi College of Education, Science and Technology, Bama, while 2,730 others were billed to benefit under the second phase of the exercise.

The state government also organised a three-month sandwich programme for 1,884 beneficiaries, while 846 others who do not have tertiary qualification will undergo a full-time NCE programme, to build their capacities towards enhancing the standard of education.

This is in addition to the N1.3 billion scholarship for 997 nursing and midwifery students as well as N201 million bursary awards to over 2,000 indigent students of higher institutions of learning across the country.

Apart from viable teacher development and welfare programmes, CISA has also found out, with evidential facts, that Zulum has spent millions of naira in the execution of school infrastructure, construction of classrooms, establishment of new mega schools, provision of furniture and instructional materials to basic and post basic schools all geared towards enhancing delivery of free quality education for all.

Governor Zulum’s strong commitment to educational advancement has led to the enhancement of all state-owned tertiary institutions to meet world-class standards. This was made possible through the provision of infrastructure, state-of-the-art equipment, teacher development programs, scholarships, and bursaries for both educators and students, all aimed at fostering academic excellence. Additionally, thanks to Zulum’s efforts, the Borno State University (BOSU) successfully obtained accreditation for its programs from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

To attest to these feats, the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Borno State chapter commended the efforts of governor Zulum in transforming the education sector.

The NUT Chairman, Comrade Zali Audu Garba said: “Your Excellency, it is my candid belief that the education sector is undergoing a tremendous transformation, ranging from human and infrastructural development”.

Our team of investigators also interviewed Comrade Bulama Abiso, a former NLC chairman, who provided insight into the education sector crisis, particularly concerning primary school teachers who fall under the authority of the local government council. He explained that the Governor, like his predecessors, inherited a longstanding issue that dates back many years.

He attributed the problems to the local government education secretaries who neglected their responsibilities when they should have been upholding them. According to him, these secretaries engaged in unethical practices such as appointing the children of deceased senior staff members to positions within the Local Education Authorities (LEAs) illegally. These individuals, hired as staff, received a fraction of their late parent’s salary.

For instance, if a senior head teacher previously earned N100,000, four individuals would be employed as junior staff to divide the salary among them. This resulted in the enrollment of numerous unqualified individuals as teachers, compromising the quality of education provided.

Interestingly; in recognition of Zulum’s commitment and giant strides in education development, the governor has been invited to deliver a speech at the 2024 Edition UN Dialogue on Education Transformation in Africa Series (ADS 2024), held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, from May 6 to 24.

According to a publication by the UN on its website, the programme titled: “Africa Month” is to mobilise actions by leveraging science, technology and innovation to transform education in Africa. Governor Zulum, H.E. Mr. Dennis Francis, President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly, Ms. Cristina Duarte, UN Under-Secretary-General and UN Special Adviser on Africa, and many other stakeholders will be attending the dialogue.

This year’s dialogue series has the theme: “Education through Science, Technology and Innovation toward the Africa We Want.” It will focus on obtaining a concerted Africa-centred policy shift needed to fast-track the transformation of the educational landscape on the continent.

These invitations serve as a testament to Zulum’s significant contributions to educational development in both the state and Nigeria as a whole. This underscores the importance for well-meaning citizens of Borno State to come together in support of the administration’s efforts to realize its objectives of establishing a new, peaceful, and prosperous state.

_Chidi is the National Coordinator of CISA, and he writes from Abuja.

Transforming education sector in Borno State – The Zulum example

News

The exceptional brilliance of Coach Yusuf Alabi at Gombe United

Published

10 hours ago

May 1, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

The exceptional brilliance of Coach Yusuf Alabi at Gombe United

By Barry Kalla

Gombe United’s relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO) is one that is widely being perceived as a difficult pill to swallow and a rude shock to all football lovers in the state who would have wished it was a bad dream that they should hastily awake from, especially in view of the pedigree of the club and its role in putting smiles on the faces of millions of passionate fans week in, week out.

To them, it is one prophesy they wished was never fulfilled as many football analysts in the state had earlier raised the alarm regarding the manner the club was being managed and handled administratively but the warning was ignored and today, Gombe United has now achieved the opposite of the mandate set for it by the state which is Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) ticket.

In the midst of all these, we must never forget the sacrifices that were made in spite of the club’s relegation. One of those sheer sacrifices is that of Coach Yusuf Salihu Alabi whose unmatchable commitment, diligence and true brilliance added value to Gombe United. Coach Alabi, as the Technical Adviser of the club invested a lot of technical know-how which could have paid off if he had enough time. The repairs and technical reforms gave Gombe United the pride of not getting relegated long before now.

Though the mandate of the club wasn’t met, but we must not fail to lavish our commendation where it is most needed and to Alabi, he deserves all the commendations in view of the state he met Gombe United and the impact he made within the short time available.

One of the beauties of life is that it maintains a balance, where every negative situation contains a hidden positive spark and without mincing words, Yusuf Alabi is that spark that must be celebrated for his exceptional efforts in building and rekindling hope at a time that the club was battling the worst performance in recent history.

Somehow, Alabi’s prowess came in good in terms of character building, professionalism, team unity, and rejigging the structural make-up of the team that produced some impressive results that repositioned the team and gave hope to numerous fans of Gombe United.

A quick look at the results, showed that on February 14, 2026 Jigawa Golden Stars defeated Gombe United 2-1; interestingly, though a defeat but it was the first time, Gombe United scored an away goal in months, prior to this match which was Alabi’s first on the job. The away goal was the hope the fans waited for in a long time. The next match was even a better outing as United beat visiting Bichi 2-1, before going to Kebbi to pick a point on the road with a goalless draw.

The other matches were a 1-1 draw with Yobe; 2-0 defeat away to Adamawa United and a 2-0 win at home against Ranchers on April 22, 2026. Analysis of the result under Alabi’s watch showed a departure from the norm of frequent points losses both at home and away.

Alabi further proved that his Confederation of African Football (CAF) B License is not a mistake by winning the state F.A Cup for Gombe United and adding more value to the history of the club.

A glance at Alabi’s coaching and sports certification showed that he obtained his Basic Certificate in football coaching in 2008; Modern Trend in Football Coaching 2009; Youth Football Coaching and Admin 2011; BFUT Level 4 Coaching License (FIFA Endorsed) 2012.
Others include CAF “C” License 2014; CAF “B” License 2017; Pro Football Management Master Class (PFMMC) 2020; Coach the Coaches Refresher Course (Ghana) 2021; IOC Sports Administrator Course 2023; CAF License Coach Educator 2025 and IOC Sports Manager Course 2025.

With such rich CV, he has worked with over 22 clubs across the country before joining Gombe United. Indeed his wealth of experience has helped fortified Gombe United but for time and other administrative ills, Alabi would have restored the glory of Gombe United.

This write-up is to show appreciation to Coach Yusuf Alabi regardless of the circumstances.
We are proud of what he has done and in spite of the relegation his professionalism is not in doubt because he has proven that he can be trusted with any team even in NPFL to deliver the goods.

The exceptional brilliance of Coach Yusuf Alabi at Gombe United

News

Gombe partners media to boost polio, HPV vaccine uptake

Published

14 hours ago

May 1, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Gombe partners media to boost polio, HPV vaccine uptake

The Gombe State Government has engaged media professionals and stakeholders to strengthen awareness on polio immunisation and boost vaccine uptake ahead of upcoming campaigns across communities in the state.

The engagement, on Thursday in Gombe, is part of preparations for the May round of Intensive Supplemental National Immunisation Plus Days (SNIPDs) campaign targeting improved coverage and community participation statewide.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the session with journalists and social media influencers was organised by the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency (GSPHCDA) to enhance public communication strategies.

The agency partnered with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, World Health Organization, and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to coordinate efforts aimed at increasing awareness and acceptance of vaccines among residents.

The May campaign will focus mainly on polio vaccination and the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine, targeting children and young girls to prevent disease outbreaks and long-term health complications.

Mr Abubakar Mu’azu, District Health Information Officer, (GSPHCDA), highlighted the importance of awareness, urging media stakeholders to encourage caregivers to present eligible children for vaccination during the campaign period.

Mu’azu disclosed that more than 963,000 children were vaccinated against polio during the March 2026 round but noted a decline compared to previous exercises conducted within the state.

He said more than one million children were vaccinated in June 2025, while 968,710 received doses in November, stressing the need to reverse the downward trend through intensified advocacy.

He explained that engaging the media was a strategic step to improve public trust, counter misinformation, and drive increased participation in both routine immunisation and mass vaccination campaigns statewide.

Mr John Markez, Social and Behavioural Change Consultant with UNICEF, emphasised the importance of promoting polio and HPV vaccines in preventing disease outbreaks and reducing long-term health risks among populations.

“Not all cervical cancer issues are HPV related but about 70 per cent of them are associated with HPV.

“Capturing these girls at the age of nine provides long-lasting protection,” he said.

He added that mass vaccination campaigns and routine immunisation services had significantly reduced polio risks in Nigeria compared to levels recorded about 15 to 20 years ago nationwide.

Emily Madina, Consultant with the Christian Health Association of Nigeria, reiterated the critical role of the media in driving awareness, influencing behaviour, and improving vaccine acceptance in underserved communities.

Gombe partners media to boost polio, HPV vaccine uptake

News

Unlocking the Benefits of Zero-Tariff Measures to Elevate the China–Africa Community with a Shared Future to a New Level

Published

16 hours ago

May 1, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Unlocking the Benefits of Zero-Tariff Measures to Elevate the China–Africa Community with a Shared Future to a New Level

By Yu Dunhai,

On May 1 this year, China will fully implement zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with China. This represents a concrete step by China to expand high-level opening up and deepen China–Africa cooperation. As the policy enters its implementation phase, China–Nigeria cooperation is also reaching a critical juncture, transitioning from an “opportunity window” to the delivery of tangible outcomes.

This measure is characterized by comprehensive coverage. Previously, China had already granted zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to 33 least developed African countries. Starting May 1, China will further extend zero-tariff arrangements, through preferential tariff rates, to 20 non-least developed African countries, including Nigeria, thereby achieving full coverage of all African countries with diplomatic relations with China. As a result, China has become the first major economy in the world to unilaterally implement comprehensive zero-tariff treatment for all such countries, demonstrating through concrete actions its commitment to providing market opportunities to African partners.

Zero tariffs measures directly reduce the cost of Nigerian products entering the Chinese market. From sesame, ginger, and cashews to cocoa and other specialty agricultural products, as long as they meet rules of origin as well as inspection and quarantine requirements, they can access the Chinese market more smoothly. This “channel effect” helps translate potential demand into stable orders and convert market opportunities into tangible benefits.

Beyond enabling products to be “sold,” this measure will also help them be “sold better.” The removal of tariffs will both encourage and incentivize enterprises to improve quality standards, optimize product structures, and strengthen brand development, thereby supporting sustainable growth in China’s high-standard market. As export volumes expand and quality improves, the international reputation of “Made in Nigeria” will be further enhanced.

From a broader perspective, the measure will promote localized value addition, inject new momentum into Nigeria’s industrialization and agricultural modernization, create employment opportunities, and improve livelihoods. Clear and stable expectations for exports to China will attract increased domestic and foreign investment into sectors such as agriculture, food processing, mineral processing, and manufacturing. Value addition through local processing prior to export will help extend industrial chains and stimulate the development of supporting industries, including R&D, quality inspection, packaging, warehousing, and logistics. In this way, Nigeria will be better positioned to transition from primary commodity exports to more diversified, higher value-added exports, enhancing the resilience and dynamism of its economy.

Whether the benefits of zero-tariff measures can be fully realized ultimately depends on effective implementation. African producers and exporters, including those in Nigeria, are encouraged to proactively align with Chinese market requirements in terms of product quality, supply reliability, and brand promotion. China will work closely with Nigeria and other African countries to create an even more enabling environment for expanding exports to China. This includes providing technical support through capacity-building programs, enhancing trade facilitation through “green channels” for agricultural products, and welcoming Nigerian enterprises to actively participate in major platforms such as the China International Import Expo, the Canton Fair, and the China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo to connect with buyers and promote their products. We also look forward to close coordination with relevant Nigerian authorities to ensure that products meet applicable origin rules, inspection and quarantine standards, and other regulatory requirements.

The zero-tariff arrangement is an innovative, phased, and pioneering measure in the ongoing negotiations on the Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development between China and African countries. This agreement will more comprehensively reduce both tariff and non-tariff barriers, enhance trade and investment facilitation, and deepen cooperation across a range of development areas, thereby providing long-term, stable, and predictable institutional support for mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria.

Against the backdrop of persistent geopolitical tensions, global economic headwinds, and rising unilateralism and protectionism, China’s commitment to expanding opening up, while focusing on Africa’s development priorities and sharing the opportunities of its vast market and modernization, demonstrates both responsibility and strategic foresight. China stands ready to work with Nigeria to ensure that zero-tariff measures take root and deliver real results, advancing Africa’s modernization and elevating the China–Africa community with a shared future to a new level.

Yu Dunhai, is Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria