Governor Umo Eno has approved the sum of N5.9 billion for sweeping reforms in the basic education sector in Akwa Ibom State, as part of efforts to strengthen teaching, learning, and infrastructure across public schools in the state.
The intervention, targeted at the 2025 and 2026 education projects, is expected to support the introduction of a new curriculum, recruitment of additional teachers, and comprehensive rehabilitation of public primary and junior secondary schools.
Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board, Hon. Anietie Etuk, disclosed the development during a press briefing held at the board’s headquarters in Uyo.
According to him, the new funding marks a departure from the previous pattern of partial school renovations, noting that the state government is now adopting a more holistic approach to educational development.
“Intervention will no longer be piecemeal. When we go to a school, we will handle it holistically classrooms, water, toilets, electricity and provide everything required to make the environment suitable for learning,” Etuk said.
He explained that the reform initiative aligns with Governor Eno’s broader commitment to improving access to quality education and creating a conducive environment for pupils and teachers in public schools.
The SUBEB chairman also revealed plans for the rollout of a new curriculum for primary schools across the state, describing it as a critical step toward improving the quality and relevance of foundational education.
“For many years, this has not happened. With the new curriculum, we will be able to add value to teaching and learning in our schools,” he stated.
Etuk added that the board is intensifying efforts to improve teaching standards through capacity development initiatives and enhanced monitoring of academic activities in schools.
He, however, expressed concern over recurring incidents of vandalism and theft of public school facilities, warning that such acts could undermine government investments in the education sector.
“Government cannot continue to commit huge resources only for facilities to be vandalised. Communities must take responsibility to protect what is provided for them,” he warned.
The reforms are expected to impact several public schools across the state, especially in rural communities where poor infrastructure and inadequate learning facilities have continued to affect educational outcomes.
The initiative also reflects growing efforts by state governments across Nigeria to reposition public basic education through improved infrastructure, teacher recruitment, curriculum reforms, and technology-driven learning systems.
