UBEC Pushes States to Access, Utilise Billions in Education Funds

The Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, has called on state governments to access more than ₦65 billion in outstanding counterpart funds and ensure the effective use of about ₦267 billion already released for education interventions.

UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, said available resources must produce visible improvements in school infrastructure and learning outcomes for Nigerian children.

Garba made the call in Asaba, Delta State, during the 30th Quarterly Meeting of UBEC Management with State Universal Basic Education Boards, SUBEBs.

She disclosed that states had accessed more than ₦177 billion in UBE Matching Grants, but noted that substantial funds remained either unaccessed or unutilised. She therefore called for improved planning, implementation and accountability in the management of basic education resources.

The UBEC Executive Secretary also announced a review of the commission’s Ten-Year Strategic Roadmap covering 2026 to 2035, as part of efforts to strengthen basic education delivery nationwide.

She said UBEC is introducing measures including the Whole School Approach, which combines the provision of classrooms, water, sanitation facilities, fencing and furniture in selected schools.

Garba also highlighted the Basic Education Action Plan Management System, designed to digitise education planning and submissions by states.

The quarterly meeting provides a platform for UBEC and SUBEB officials to assess progress and develop strategies for improving basic education across the country.

Garba further called for stronger collaboration with the private sector, development organisations and civil society, while urging states to prepare for the HOPE-EDU initiative and ensure available education funds are effectively deployed.