Despite the efforts and favorable conditions created by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Nigeria, several state governors, including those from the Federal Capital Territory, have adamantly refused to access billions of funds allocated to improve basic education, infrastructure, manpower development, capacity building, and instructional materials over the past eight years.
Instead of utilizing the funds for their intended purpose, these governors have diverted the grants meant to sustain and enhance primary and secondary education in their states, choosing to prioritize other endeavors. This trend has persisted despite multiple alarms raised by UBEC and various attempts to engage the stakeholders in constructive dialogue.
Regrettably, the staggering amount of 46 billion Naira, belonging to both state governments and the Federal Capital Territory, remains untouched as the current administration nears its end. The lack of positive response from the stakeholders has resulted in poor infrastructure, dilapidated instructional materials, and a shortage of training opportunities for education professionals, hindering the progress of basic education in Nigeria.
The obstinate response from state governments, despite UBEC’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in fund management, poses a significant threat to the abandoned funds. State offices have been at odds with state governments regarding policy distortions, misappropriation of funds, ghost projects, and the quality of work in primary and secondary schools.
This situation is detrimental to the fight against the increasing number of out-of-school children and the efforts to bridge the gap created by substandard private schools, which contradict the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In the past, elementary education in Nigeria flourished under the 6-3-3-4 system, with a dedicated body and commission overseeing its activities and receiving adequate funding. It is now crucial for state governments to realign their policies and prioritize the regular assessment of abandoned funds for the improvement of basic education in the country.
A joint effort involving the federal government, state governments, and global organizations is necessary to combat fund mismanagement, diversion, and unethical practices. Strict monitoring and adherence to best practices will lead to a robust basic education system that aligns with international standards and the UN’s education agenda.
The availability of abandoned funds presents an opportunity for the incoming state administrations to redirect their policies and programs towards the betterment of basic education nationwide. This shift from the past eight years will not only enhance basic education but also meet the expectations of the global community and the evolving educational landscape.
UBEC’s commendable decision to safeguard the state funds sets an example for public service in the current era. It dispels the belief that the end of each administration is typically marked by irregular activities, particularly concerning public funds.
The confirmation by UBEC that a substantial amount of 46 billion Naira remains unspent indicates that significant developments, innovations, and initiatives will characterize the incoming state administrations. With these available funds, and under the leadership of Dr. Hamid Bobboyi as the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of UBEC, basic education in Nigeria can be revitalized and repositioned in the shortest possible time.
Abubakar Yusuf, A Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Abuja and can be reached on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
