Gov. Idris Launches N2.7bn Education Boost in Kebbi with Books, Vehicles, and Teacher Recruitment

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State on Wednesday inaugurated the distribution of educational materials, vehicles, and motorcycles worth N2.7 billion to public schools across the state.

Speaking at the ceremony in Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing free and quality education, describing Kebbi not only as an agrarian hub but also an emerging “education state.”

“As part of our drive to reposition education and ensure it is accessible to every child in Kebbi, we are distributing over two million books to primary and secondary schools today,” the governor announced.

The items distributed include textbooks, exercise books, computers, vehicles, and motorcycles, all aimed at enhancing teaching and learning in public schools.

Governor Idris also highlighted several educational strides made under his leadership: renovation and furnishing of over 2,000 schools, construction of mega schools in all four Emirates, and the release of N2 billion for the payment of registration fees for indigenous students.

In further support of the education sector, the governor revealed that 2,000 new teachers had been hired, contributing to a broader employment initiative that has recruited 5,000 professionals, including healthcare and legal personnel, in under two years.

He reiterated his long-standing commitment to teachers’ welfare, recalling his role as a national advocate for increasing the retirement age for teachers from 35 to 40 years during his time as President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers—a policy now implemented in Kebbi.

To further strengthen local education management, the governor disclosed that professors of Kebbi origin have been appointed to lead Local Government Education Authorities, with each receiving an official vehicle and improved allowances to boost productivity.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Halima Bande, urged stakeholders to ensure proper use of the distributed resources, while school administrators and teachers were encouraged to maintain high standards in public education.

Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Hon. Garba Bena, pledged continued legislative support, noting the swift passage of the bill extending teachers’ service years.

Meanwhile, Prof. Suleiman Khalid-Jega, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, described the initiative as unparalleled in the state’s history. He listed achievements including the construction of more than 1,000 classrooms, provision of boreholes in schools, and supply of modern educational tools.

He also noted that each School-Based Management Committee had been allocated N200,000, and that over 18,000 teachers and school administrators had undergone training to enhance student outcomes.

“With Kebbi now surpassing the national average in Mathematics, English, and Basic Science, it is clear that Governor Idris is laying a robust foundation for the state’s educational future,” Khalid-Jega concluded.