… Pledges Support for Basic Education Transformation
Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Permanent Board Member, Owolabi Jamiu Falana, has commended the appointments of Hajiya Aisha Garba as Executive Secretary and Mr. Olajuwon Akinyemi as Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical) of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), describing their selection as a strategic move to revitalize foundational education in Nigeria.
Falana, during a congratulatory visit to the new UBEC leaders in Abuja, expressed optimism about their capacity to drive innovation, improve access, and elevate the quality of basic education nationwide. He emphasized that their leadership comes at a “crucial time” for Nigeria’s education sector, particularly as stakeholders push to address gaps in infrastructure, teacher training, and learning outcomes.
“I have absolute confidence in Hajiya Aisha Garba and Mr. Olajuwon Akinyemi’s wealth of experience and dedication to educational development. Their vision aligns with the urgent need to reposition basic education as a cornerstone for sustainable growth,” Falana stated. He added that Lagos State, under their collaborative leadership, anticipates “significant strides” in curriculum delivery, technology integration, and equitable access to learning opportunities.
The UBEC, established to coordinate the implementation of Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education Program, plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with national educational standards and bridging disparities across states. Falana highlighted the importance of synergy between SUBEB and UBEC, noting that strengthened partnerships would accelerate progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Hajiya Aisha Garba and Mr. Akinyemi’s appointments have drawn widespread praise from education stakeholders, who cite their track records in policy formulation and grassroots educational initiatives. Falana urged all tiers of government to support the new UBEC leadership, stressing that “investing in basic education is investing in Nigeria’s future.”
Analysts suggest that the focus on foundational education could address systemic challenges such as out-of-school children, inadequate funding, and outdated teaching methods. Falana concluded, “With their passion and expertise, we are poised to lay a stronger foundation for our children and build a society where every Nigerian child can thrive.”