The new Chairman of the Governing Board of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has promised to transform basic education across Nigeria and leave a lasting legacy during his tenure.
Al-Makura, a former Governor of Nasarawa State and a trained teacher, officially resumed duty at the UBEC headquarters in Abuja. His appointment was recently made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and he was inaugurated by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa.
In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of UBEC, David Apeh, the chairman said he would use his long-standing experience in education and public service to support UBEC in improving the quality of basic education.
“I cherish this appointment because I am a trained teacher. I taught during my NYSC and later served as Governor and Senator. I have been a strong supporter of universal and quality education at all levels,” Al-Makura said.
He also praised President Tinubu for appointing Hajiya Aisha Garba as the Executive Secretary of UBEC. He recalled working with her when she was with the World Bank and he was Governor of Nasarawa State. He commended her performance so far but stressed that she needs full support to carry out her duties successfully.
In her remarks, Hajiya Aisha Garba expressed joy over Al-Makura’s appointment, calling him her mentor. She said President Tinubu had given her a clear directive to “fix UBEC” and she is glad to have a fellow education advocate as chairman.
Both Al-Makura and Garba pledged to work together and leave behind strong improvements in Nigeria’s basic education system. UBEC is responsible for coordinating, monitoring, and improving the quality of basic education across the country.
