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UBEC unlocks N100bn funds, reaches 8.7 million learners in one year
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC announced that its interventions have reached over 8.7 million learners nationwide within a year. The commission also disclosed that more than N100bn in previously unaccessed funds have been unlocked, with over 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory now actively drawing on these resources. The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, shared this information during the commission’s 29th quarterly meeting with Executive Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards SUBEBs in Abuja. The meeting, themed 'Accelerating Basic Education Performance Through Digitally-Enabled Coordination,' highlighted the impact of joint interventions, including instructional materials, improved learning conditions, wash facilities, furniture, and the training of almost 500,000 teachers. Garba noted a shift towards more systematic and large-scale reforms in basic education, emphasizing improved funding access and collaboration with states. She also stated that 95 percent of projects for 2025 have been completed, demonstrating timely delivery. Digitalization is central to these reforms, with basic education action plans to be fully digitized from 2026 to enhance efficiency and transparency, allowing stakeholders to access real-time data on states’ needs. However, Garba raised concerns about inadequate school infrastructure, citing overcrowded facilities and insufficient sanitation. Professor Shehu Adaramaja, Chairman of SUBEB in Kwara State and D
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq visited six soldiers injured during a counterterrorism operation in Kaiama. The operation resulted in the elimination of several terrorists and the loss of three soldiers. The governor announced N20 million in support for each of the fallen soldiers and N5 million for each of the injured, stating that the sacrifices of the security forces are priceless. He also commended the care and facilities at the Intensive Care Unit of the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital and thanked the security forces for their service.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of renowned juju musician Yekini Ajao, describing him as a close friend and a significant figure in Nigeria’s music industry. Ajao reportedly died after multiple surgeries in India, concluding a career that spanned decades. In a statement shared by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke paid tribute to Ajao, recognizing him as a pioneer of the Juju Makosa genre. Adeleke stated, “I lost a very close friend, Y.K. We prayed for him to survive but God ruled otherwise. I commiserate with his family and our circle of friends, notably Shina Peters and others. His memories remain evergreen. He was a true music legend.” The governor also recalled Ajao’s performance at the inauguration of his late brother, Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, the first executive governor of Osun State. Born in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ajao began his musical journey at nine and became a respected figure in juju music, credited with creating Juju Makosa by blending traditional juju rhythms with makossa influences. He was inspired by I.K. Dairo. Before music, Ajao trained as a fashion designer and worked as a nurse. He moved to Lagos in 1971, joined a band, and formed his own group in December 1973. His debut album, Soromi Dayo, brought attention, but Macossa Series 1 propelled him to national prominence. He released notable songs including Makosa Series 2, Vigilante, Akoni Mamu Gege, and Oro NEPA. His death marks the end of an
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick stated on Tuesday that the team requires on-field leaders to realize his ambition of winning the Champions League. Flick, 61, made these comments a week after his team was eliminated from the Champions League quarter-finals by Atletico Madrid, marking the second consecutive season his Champions League hopes were ended. Last season, Barcelona reached the semi-finals before being defeated by Inter Milan. Flick led Barcelona to a domestic double last term, and they are currently nine points ahead of Real Madrid with seven games remaining in the league. He noted that having all players available during the crucial March and April period is vital, mentioning the absence of Frenkie de Jong and Raphinha against Atletico. Flick highlighted the importance of players like Inigo Martinez, who provided leadership last year, and stressed the need for players capable of speaking up and guiding the team in key Champions League matches. He also acknowledged the team's youth, largely composed of academy graduates, and their need to learn from defeats to progress. Flick expressed confidence in the team's future and the necessity of making correct decisions, particularly in the transfer market, though he did not elaborate on specific recruitment plans or his own future, only stating his hope for a contract extension in what he considers his "last job".
British long-distance runner Calli Hauger-Thackery completed the Boston Marathon while 22 weeks pregnant, describing it as one of the most meaningful moments of her career. The 33-year-old Olympian finished the race in two hours and 43 minutes. Hauger-Thackery faced challenges during the race, including a trapped nerve in her glute at mile five, which required medical attention. She also needed treatment again at mile 11 and made two stops for bathroom breaks due to her pregnancy. Despite these difficulties, she felt a significant improvement in the second half of the marathon, stating, "The second half felt flawless, like I was in tune with my body. I felt a million dollars." While her finishing time was slower than her personal best, Hauger-Thackery emphasized the personal significance of completing the race under these circumstances.