Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education in Nigeria has commended the governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his commitment to repositioning education in the state.
Alausa expressed the commendation on Monday at the inauguration of two newly constructed GYB Model Science Secondary Schools in Nagazi, Adavi and in Okebukun, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Areas.
The minister said the school was a testament to the governor’s visionary leadership and dedication to transforming education.
He praised the state’s initiatives, including free education policies, payment of exam fees, and establishment of three universities fully accreditated.
He lauded the state for allocating over 30 per cent annual budget to education surpassing the UNESCO recommendation of 26 per cent.
“Your Excellency, I commend your visionary leadership and commitment to repositioning education as a central pillar of development.
“Today’s event is my chance to witness a remarkable transformation, the GYB Model Science Secondary School, a flagship project that’s redefining the educational landscape.
“This isn’t just a school; it’s a symbol of hope, a deliberate investment in our young people’s future.
“I am impressed by the strategic establishment of GYB Mega Model Science Schools across the three senatorial districts, guaranteeing inclusivity, promoting equity, and expanding access to quality education.
“Kogi State is setting a shining example, and I’m honored to be part of this journey,” Alausa said.
He praised the state’s efforts to promote equity and expand access to quality education.
Alausa also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for implementing far-reaching reforms in the education sector particularly the student education loan fund, NELFund.
The minister noted that over one million students have benefitted from the loan worth of over N1.1 billion, adding that over 160,000 youths have been trained on digital skills.
Alausa emphasised that the federal government is focusing more attention on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, STEM education, technical and vocational training, and digitalisation.
He praised Ododo and other governors for complementing the federal government’s efforts towards education transformation in the country.
Alausa urged students to seize opportunities, saying, “You have a country now that is giving you all the opportunities you need. The President will meet all his commitments to you”.
Earlier, Gov. Ododo praised the minister and President Tinubu for their commitment to education sector reforms in the country, emphasising education as the foundation of societal progress.
“Today marks a defining step in securing Kogi State’s future through purposeful investment in education,” he said,
The governor highlighted the school’s modern facilities, including 18 classrooms, science laboratories, and a 326-capacity Computer-Based Test centre.
He acknowledged President Tinubu’s leadership, crediting his economic reforms for increased state revenue, enabling projects like the school.
The governor also praised the immediate past Gov. Yahaya Bello, for initiating the Mega Schools Initiative.
According to him, the school, accommodating over 1,700 students, aimed to promote quality education, uniform standards, and 21st-century skills.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to education transformation towards reducing the number of out-of-school children drastically in the state.
Ododo urged students to seize opportunities, saying, “The future belongs to those who prepare for it with purpose”
Commissioner for Education in the state, Mr. Wemi Jones, praised the governor’s dedication to education and unwavering commitment to education transformation in the state.
Jones also commended the education minister for his impactful leadership, saying, “You stand out, you have been so engaging, impactful, and caring, and you care so much about the sub-nationals.”
HRM Dr. Ahmed Tijani-Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land praised Ododo’s administration for its commitment to improving education.
“Many schools were given a new life, and learning conditions were greatly improved,” the monarch said.
Gov. Ododo also inaugurated the GYB model science secondary school at Okebukun in Kabba-Bunu.
