NEWS
Kwara Gets UBEC’s ‘Smart’ School to Provide Basic Education
From Alfred Babs, Ilorin
Universal Basic Education Board has approved the location of one of its smart schools in Kwara State.
A statement by the Press Secretary in the state Universal Basic Education Board (KWASUBEB), Atere Abiola, said that the Smart School is designed to offer 21st century education.
According to the statement, the ‘smart school’ would comprise comprehensive IT-enabled basic classes that would accommodate preschoolers, primary classes and junior secondary school classes, fitted with accessories like e-libraries, clinic and laboratories that make a complete school in the internet age.
UBEC preconditions contained in the award letter included that the school be sited at a secured location in the capital town of the beneficiary states.
Recall that UBEC had earlier approved the construction of the first set of the smart schools in 2019 in 20 states but Kwara was clearly not considered because of its pariah status between 2013 and 2019.
Speaking at the inspection of the proposed site for the school in Ilorin on Saturday, UBEC national consultant for the project, Professor Masud Abdulkareem said they were in the state to conclude all preliminary works, including suitability of the site, prior to the construction which will take 12 months.
Abdulkareem, a professor of architecture, described the smart school concept introduced by UBEC chief, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi as a game changer in basic education in Nigeria.
“With a smart school, a teacher at UBEC headquarters in Abuja or anywhere in the world can teach simultaneously to students in all the schools in Nigeria. UBEC has engaged one of best ICT companies in the world a leading (Huawei). It is the one to equip and provide the software for the learning materials.
“This is the second phase of smart school proposed by UBEC. This team is sent by the Executive Secretary of UBEC to come and access the suitability of the site. I have a team of experts that will do the geo-technical and geophysical survey to establish the appropriateness and capacity of the soil so that the foundation will be done.
“We are lucky from what I am seeing because the first criteria is that the school must be within a community as this one. It is not in an isolated location so that security will not become a problem. We have seen that this place is very secured in a fenced environment.
“So, here we don’t have the problem of suitability. The proposed smart school has three components — for nursery, primary and junior secondary schools. With the programme, a three-year old can come to school safely. This place is ideal for the project. Within a week, we will produce the foundation engineering drawing so that the construction work will start.
“This exercise is also to handover the place to the contractor and begin the process of mobilisation. The school is expected to be self-sufficient in terms of water supply and electricity supply.
“UBEC is giving the minimum and later handover to SUBEB after completion. The state can begin to think of how to make the school a hub of ICT for the benefit of the state,” he said
UBEC Contractor-in-charge of the project Alhaji Abdulkadir Umar promised to deliver a quality job in line with the specifications.
Chairman of Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board, Prof. Shehu Adaramaja said the state could have been a part of the first batch, which it did not make as a result of the strained relationship the former administration had with the agency over non-payment of counterpart funds and diversion of funds.
“We appreciate the UBEC for the consideration given to us and for the selection of the contractor. We pray that the contractor will work very fast and make the facility available for Kwarans,” Adaramaja said.
“We have talked to ourselves and we will do everything possible to assist the contractor to ensure that the construction will not last more than 12 months as given to us. Anything that will make it last longer than 12 months, Kwarans and of course our governor will not take it from us. We will not compromise on quality jobs.”
The Governor had only recently reset the relationship between Kwara and UBEC by paying back funds diverted by the former administration and paying backlog of counterpart funds not accessed since 2013.
This has unlocked various opportunities for the state in the basic education sector, including ongoing construction works across 600 schools in the state.
From Dan Amasingha, Minna
Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has commiserated with the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen Bola Tinubu over the death of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, on November 5.
In a statement signed by his media team from uphill, Minna on Thursday. His death, especially at this point in his life and career, is not only a profound loss to his immediate family but to our country as a whole. ”He was a fine officer and a dedicated leader of men whose sense of patriotism was exemplary”His vigorous effort at the frontline of the war to end banditry and insurgency has already borne good fruits, and it is unfortunate that he would not be around to see it through””Gen Babangida’s heart goes out to his beloved family, his officers and men, and the country that has once again lost a gallant army chief”He was one of the finest in the tradition of his brilliant predecessors. May his soul Rest In Perfect Peace”As the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to make the necessary sacrifice to safeguard our democracy, our territorial integrity, and our safetyHe joins other citizens in applauding the courage of their exemplary heroes.By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
Key stakeholders from Nigeria’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors convened in Lagos for a pivotal validation event dedicated to Nigeria’s Draft National Tourism Policy.Hosted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy in collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), the event marked a significant step toward aligning Nigeria’s tourism framework with global standards, while celebrating the country’s rich cultural and natural resources.
The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, delivered the opening address, underscoring Nigeria’s vast but untapped tourism potential and its diverse landscapes, vibrant heritage, and economic promise.She commended NESG and private sector partners for their dedicated collaboration on the policy, emphasizing that the last update to Nigeria’s tourism policy occurred in 2005. With a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, and community engagement, the revalidated framework aims to modernize the tourism sector, positioning it as a driver of national economic growth.Former Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, who played a vital role in the policy’s original formulation, emphasized the policy’s value in unlocking Nigeria’s tourism assets and praised NESG’s contributions in guiding the policy development process. She highlighted the potential for a comprehensive tourism framework to foster sustainable national growth.Representing the NESG, Dr. Ikenna Nwosu, Facilitator for the Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment, Culture, Creative, and Sports Policy Commission (THECCS), spoke on the importance of a robust tourism policy and the power of public-private collaboration in stimulating growth, especially in the post-pandemic era. He commended the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing tourism and underscored the essential role of NESG in shaping a responsive and inclusive policy.Public Sector Co-chair and Director of International Tourism Relations & Cooperation at the Federal Ministry, Dorothy Duruaku, welcomed attendees, after which Private Sector Co-chair and thematic Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Industries at NESG Lolo Ngozi Ngoka, presented the draft policy.Ngoka highlighted the policy’s priorities: diversifying tourism offerings, promoting inclusivity through broad stakeholder engagement, and advancing digital innovation to enhance Nigeria’s appeal as a global tourism destination. Notably, more than 200 industry professionals contributed to the review process over the last four years, reinforcing the impact of public-private partnerships in strengthening infrastructure and supporting community-focused initiatives.A major highlight of the event was the introduction of the Tourism Policy Review Committee to Minister Musawa and former Minister Ade-John, who jointly presented Certificates of Commendation to recognize the committee’s dedication and contributions. Additional commendation letters will be presented to sub-group members at a later date by the co-chairs.The event featured a dynamic panel discussion with prominent tourism experts assessing the policy’s potential impact, followed by breakout sessions where stakeholders offered valuable insights on key areas, including infrastructure, marketing and promotion, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder engagement.Each breakout session allowed for targeted discussions, producing feedback that was expanded upon during an open Q&A session. Ngozi Ngoka noted that NESG, alongside the Federal Ministry of Tourism, will integrate approved recommendations into the final draft of the policy.The finalization of Nigeria’s National Tourism Policy, scheduled for November 2024, will include further consultations to refine the policy’s objectives. NESG encourages all stakeholders to remain actively engaged as Nigeria advances toward a thriving, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism sector.From Jude Dangwam, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Army and the family of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, following his passing away.In a condolence message signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs Gyang Bere, the Governor described Gen.
Lagbaja’s death as a tremendous loss not only to his family and the Nigerian Armed Forces but also to the people of Plateau State, where he was a steadfast advocate for peace and security. He said the late Plateau will not in a hurry forget about the relentless efforts of the late Chief of Army Staff in fostering an environment where citizens could carry out their daily lives in safety and harmony.Mutfwang noted that Gen. Lagbaja was a man of exceptional intellect, integrity, and compassion, who distinguished himself throughout his military career.He stressed that Gen. Lagbaja’s commitment to national and international assignments in pursuit of peace and stability left an indelible legacy, adding that this underscored the depth of his service to the nation.I’m his words, “Gen. Lagbaja’s legacy of justice, fairness, and his steadfast dedication to the peace and security of Nigeria should serve as an enduring inspiration to all, particularly the young officers in the Nigerian Army.”He highlighted Gen. Lagbaja’s unflagging dedication to restoring peace across the country with particular efforts in Plateau State, where he played a crucial role during the December 2023 Christmas Eve tragedy in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.Governor stated this, “It is with profound sorrow and deep sympathy that I extend my heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the family of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.”While words cannot ease the pain of such a monumental loss, I pray that the Almighty God, the God of all comfort, will surround you all with His grace and peace during this difficult time. May the Lord grant you the fortitude to bear this loss with strength and courage.” He prayed for the department Chief OfficerMutfwang reiterated that on behalf of his family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State offered their deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the bereaved family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished officer. While praying for God’s comfort and strength to uphold them through the period of profound grief.
Gen. Babangida Commiserates with Nigerians over Lagbaja
ShareFrom Dan Amasingha, Minna Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has commiserated with the President and Commander in Chief...
NESG, Tourism Stakeholders Meet to Validate Draft National Tourism Policy
ShareBy Tony Obiechina, Abuja Key stakeholders from Nigeria’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors convened in Lagos for a pivotal validation...
Mutfwang Condole with Tinubu, Nigerian Army over Lagbaja’s Demise
ShareFrom Jude Dangwam, Jos Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian...
Niger Procures Five Mega Metal Boats to Curb Incessant Boat Mishap
ShareFrom Dan Amasingha, Minna Worried by the incessant boat mishaps that has claimed several lives over the years, Niger state...
FUTH Lafia to Provide Early Breast Cancer Treatment as TotalEnergies Donates Mammography
ShareFrom Abel Zwànke, Lafia In a major healthcare boost for Nasarawa State, TotalEnergies in partnership with other stakeholders has donated...
Another Blackout as National Grid Collapses Second Time in Two Days
ShareBy Mike Odiakose, Abuja As Nigerians await full power restoration, the national grid has collapsed once again.The national grid collapsed...
FG Defends CNG Vehicle Safety Amid Malaysia’s Phase-out plan
ShareBy David Torough, Abuja The Presidency has sought to allay concerns regarding the safety of Compressed Natural Gas-powered vehicles, recently...
Media Group Confers Lifetime Patron Award on Ogbodo for Community Devt
ShareBy David Torough, Abuja In a ceremony that underscored his dedication to humanity and his community, Medical Director of Lydia...
FCT Court Urges Renovation of its Complex Burnt During EndSARS Protest
Share The FCT Customary Court, Dutse, Abuja has appealed to the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) to facilitate the renovation of...
Group Cautions NASS Against Tax Reforms Bill
Share The Northern Youths Assembly has cautioned the National Assembly against passing the Tax Reforms Bill from the executive before...