Dr Zaheed Mahmood

Ai for unserved communities

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Yesterday marked an important milestone in our journey towards building a more innovative, efficient, and future-ready Universal Basic Education Commission.

I had the honour of leading the launch of UBEC’s Digital Transformation and Change Management Roadmap, alongside the inauguration of our first cohort of Digital Champions. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to harnessing technology, data, and innovation to strengthen basic education delivery across Nigeria.

Digital transformation is not merely about deploying technology; it is about transforming mindsets, improving systems, and fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement. Through initiatives such as Microsoft 365 adoption, the UBEC Hub Intranet, Smart Schools, and Digital Learning Centres, we are laying the foundation for a digitally enabled education ecosystem that serves every Nigerian child better.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our newly inaugurated Digital Champions, whose dedication and leadership will drive this transformation across departments, zonal offices, and states.

Also, I am deeply honoured and grateful for the recognition and awards presented to me during this event. I receive these honours with humility, not as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the collective efforts of the entire UBEC family and our partners committed to transforming education in Nigeria.

As we move forward, let us embrace innovation, continuous learning, and collaboration as we build a stronger institution and create greater opportunities for future generations.

Together, we are shaping the future of basic education in Nigeria.

#EducationForAll

[Elon Musk @elonmusk]

True

[Bashir Ahmad, OON @BashirAhmaad]

Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. I just received the sad news of the passing of our friend, Saleh Shehu Ashaka. He was a kind-hearted and humble individual who touched many lives with his warmth and sincerity. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

[Fatima S. Zuntu MD, MPH @drfatima84]

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhir rajiun. The news of the demise of @AshakaSaleh came to me as a shock. Despite battling wit his health he was always looking out for his friends. Always the first to call/mssg. May Allah forgive his sins & grant him the highest rank in Aljannah firdaus

[Adamu B. Garba II, Msc, MNIIA, FIDPM @adamugarba]

Inna Lillahi wa inna IlaiHi Raajiun.

The passing of @AshakaSaleh came to me with rude shock, but as a Muslim who believes in Allah’s omnipotent existence, I completely seek Allah mercy and Grace towards his soul and Jannatul Firdaus as his final resting place.

Shehu Saleh Ashaka was one of the finest, quintessential and intellectual journalist of international reputation.

I mourn his loss, deeply.

[Gimba Kakanda @gimbakakanda]

Even in his illness, @AshakaSaleh remained the life of every space. He looked out for his friends and never allowed anyone to be burdened by his health struggles. It is devastating to learn of his passing today, and I believe his absence will leave a deep vacuum in many social circles, as it will in his family. May Allah forgive his shortcomings, repose his soul, and comfort his loved ones. Ameen.

[Hamzat Lawal - 🐘 @HamzyCODE]

I have lost my trusted friend and brother, SALEH (@AshakaSaleh)

I have no words. Innalilahi 💔

[Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim, CON @ProfIsaPantami]

Inna lil Laahi wa inna ilaiHi Raaji'un!
With a very heavy heart, I heard about the passing of our younger brother, Malam Saleh Shehu Ashaka (RH).

This is indeed a monumental loss of one of the most productive members of our younger generation. I had several discussions and interviews with him that will remain well grounded in my memory.

Our heartfelt condolences to his parents, family, relatives, friends, and associates. We pray that Allah admits him into Jannatul Firdaus, together with our departed parents and loved ones.

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Today, we celebrate the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of Nigerian workers who continue to drive progress across all sectors.

At UBEC, we recognize and deeply appreciate the tireless efforts of our educators, administrators, and stakeholders who are shaping the future of basic education, one school at a time.

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, we remain committed to strengthening the foundation of learning and empowering those who make quality education possible.

Your work matters. Your impact is lasting. Your contribution is nation-building.

Happy Workers’ Day!

[Dr. Tunji Alausa @DrTunjiAlausa]

Back in session.

Today’s meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) reaffirmed our steady, forward momentum in delivering sector-wide transformation in education.

With the approval of Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Council, the Federal Ministry of Education will be advancing key initiatives to further strengthen education governance.

On Wednesday 6th May, the FME will be hosting a press briefing to provide further information on the initiatives.

My sincere appreciation to Mr. President and my fellow Council members for their continued support and shared commitment to this continued focus on education sector-wide transformation.

We are not just making plans, we are delivering a system that works. The Federal Ministry of Education will continue to push forward, ensuring that every reform brings us closer to a stronger, more innovative, and globally competitive education sector for Nigeria.

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Education should never be defined by limitations in space, infrastructure, or dignity.

During an earlier monitoring visit to schools within Nasarawa LGA, Kano State, including Suntulima Special Primary School, Tarauni Special Primary School, and Daurawa Primary School. The realities on ground were clear: overcrowded classrooms, severe shortages of furniture, inadequate water supply, and learning environments that did not reflect the true potential of the children within them.

In Suntulima Primary School alone, over 3,500 pupils navigated learning amidst infrastructural gaps, while similar conditions were observed across other schools, with thousands of learners facing inadequate classrooms, limited resources, and unconducive learning environments.

These conditions demanded more than observation, they required decisive action.

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has taken deliberate steps to transform these realities through strategic interventions funded by the UBEC-SUBEB Matching Grant.

Today, that commitment is evident.

New classroom blocks are under construction, with roofing completed in some locations and ongoing works including plastering, ceiling installations, and structural improvements, progressing steadily. These efforts are not just improving infrastructure; they are creating safe, functional, and inspiring spaces where learning can truly take place.

This transformation goes beyond buildings. It restores dignity, supports teachers, and gives every child a fair opportunity to learn and succeed.

UBEC remains committed to transforming learning one school at a time through accountability, strong partnerships, and a clear focus on impact.

Because when we improve the environment, we unlock potential.
And when we invest in education, we secure the future.

[@UBECnigeria @ubecnigeria]

Highlights from the 29th Quarterly Meeting with UBEC Management with the Executive Chairmen of SUBEBs held on the 21st-22nd April,2026.

#ubec #educationforall #basiceducation #ubecmedia #nigeriaeducation

Department of Corporate Communications, UBEC.

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Today marked Day 2 of the 29th Quarterly Meeting of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Management with Executive Chairmen of SUBEBs.

We held engaging interactive sessions alongside insightful presentations from management staff, creating space for honest conversations, knowledge sharing, and alignment on key priorities shaping basic education delivery across states.

These discussions are critical as we continue to strengthen coordination, improve implementation, and ensure that our strategies translate into measurable impact for every Nigerian child.

We remain committed to learning, adapting, and working collaboratively to drive sustainable progress in the education sector.

[@UBECnigeria @ubecnigeria]

29th UBEC–SUBEB Quarterly Meeting 2026.

Theme: Accelerating Basic Education Performance Through Digitally Enabled Coordination

Results so far:
✅ 8.7M learners reached
✅ 244K+ teachers trained
✅ ₦100bn+ matching grants unlocked

UBEC now a systems enabler driving digital reform.

#UBEC #BasicEducation #Nigeria

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Today, at the 29th Quarterly Meeting of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Management with Executive Chairmen of SUBEBs, we reaffirmed a shared commitment: accelerating basic education outcomes through deliberate, data-driven action.

Over the past year, we have collectively reached over 8.7 million learners, trained nearly 500,000 teachers, improved learning environments, and strengthened access to essential resources across the country. With over ₦100 billion unlocked and more than 30 states actively utilizing the Basic Education Fund, the progress is clear but the work ahead demands even greater coordination and accountability.

Our focus now is clear:
Moving beyond “business as usual” to a system that is digitally enabled, transparent, and responsive.

From 2026, the Basic Education Action Plan (BEAP) will be fully digitized, enabling real-time planning, faster approvals, increased transparency, and stronger collaboration with partners. This is not just about technology; it is about using data as a tool for precision, efficiency, and measurable impact.

We are also taking decisive steps to establish and enforce minimum standards across all schools ensuring that infrastructure, learning conditions, and teacher support meet the expectations every Nigerian child deserves.

This meeting remains a critical platform for peer learning, shared accountability, and strategic alignment across states. I encourage all stakeholders to continue to identify needs clearly, leverage our evolving digital systems, and work collaboratively to drive sustainable change.

Education for all is not just a goal, it is a responsibility we must collectively deliver on.

[Suwaiba Said Ahmad, PhD @Suwaiba_Said]

It was a pleasure joining leaders at CPD59. Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Sierra Leone, like Nigeria, share the challenge of a rapidly growing young population and the urgent need to turn this demographic reality into opportunity. In Nigeria, our approach is deliberate. Data and digitisation form the central pillar of the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).

Nigeria is proving that inclusive, technology driven education is achievable. When data leads and technology meets people where they are, real change follows. We will not stop until every learner is visible and every teacher is supported.

[@UBECnigeria @ubecnigeria]

UBEC Flags Off Distribution of Instructional Materials to FCT Public Basic Schools

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), in collaboration with the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, officially flagged off the distribution of instructional materials to public basic schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative forms part of a nationwide drive to strengthen foundational education delivery.

This intervention underscores UBEC’s collective commitment to improving access, equity, and quality in basic education across Nigeria, ensuring that every child is equipped with the tools needed to learn effectively and thrive.

As part of the programme, over 7 million core textbooks are being deployed, alongside thousands of ancillary learning materials such as exercise books and writing materials. In addition, more than 40 interactive SMART boards and over 30 desktop computers are being distributed to enhance digital learning in classrooms.

These efforts complement broader national achievements, including:

Distribution of over 400,000 teaching and learning materials nationwide

Targeted interventions reaching out-of-school children

Continuous teacher capacity-building programmes that have trained over 500 teachers

Through sustained collaboration with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) and education stakeholders, UBEC continues to advance reforms that improve literacy, numeracy, and overall learning outcomes nationwide.

“Education remains the foundation of national development, and this initiative reflects our ongoing resolve to ensure no child is left behind,” said Dr. Aisha @AishaMGarba Garba, Executive Secretary UBEC.

Department of Corporate Communications, UBEC

[@UBECnigeria @ubecnigeria]

I am deeply grateful to everyone who took out time to celebrate my birthday with me. Your kind messages, prayers, thoughtful gestures, and expressions of love truly meant more than words can fully capture. I am especially grateful to the Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Olajuwon R. Akinyemi, the Management and Staff of UBEC, and all stakeholders across the basic education ecosystem who joined in celebrating me. I also sincerely appreciate the Chairmen of Kwara, Adamawa, Katsina, Kaduna, Kano, Taraba and Sokoto State Universal Basic Education Boards, for their warm wishes and support. Each message reminded me of the privilege of serving and being part of such a warm and supportive basic education family. As I step into this new year, I am encouraged and inspired to continue giving my best in service, with renewed strength and purpose. Thank you once again for making my day special. I sincerely appreciate you all.

Warm regards, Aisha Garba Executive Secretary, UBEC

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

I am deeply grateful to be celebrated by the amazing team at UBEC today.

Your kind gestures and wishes made my birthday truly memorable. Thank you for the warmth. Here’s to continuing our work with purpose, impact, and excellence as we uplift the education sector together.

[AISHA GARBA @AishaMGarba]

Day Two of the ongoing three-day Engagement and Sensitization Meeting on the HOPE Governance and HOPE Education programmes continued with productive engagements and strengthened collaboration among key stakeholders.

Convened by the Federal Ministry of Education Nigeria in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission and supported by the World Bank, the sessions focused on deepening commitment, aligning implementation priorities, and reinforcing shared responsibility for improving basic education outcomes across states.

The engagement remains centered on strengthening coordination, enhancing accountability, and ensuring effective rollout of the HOPE programmes to expand access, improve quality, and deliver inclusive learning opportunities for every Nigerian child.

Together, we continue to move from commitment to action.