Education Under Dr. Idris: As Professors Take Charge At LG Levels
By: Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi
When Dr. Nasir Idris assumed the role of the Governor of Kebbi state in 2023, there was widespread anticipation that he would address the long-standing issues plaguing the education sector.
A Governor with a teaching background in a state renowned for its academic legacy naturally raises expectations for educational reform. With Dr. Idris at the helm, those expectations have transformed into a promising reality. His extensive experience as a teacher, unionist, and activist positions him uniquely to enact impactful changes that can positively influence the future of the community.
In his tenure spanning under just two years, Dr. Idris has not only achieved a great deal but remains restless, seeking to elevate the educational landscape in Kebbi state further. The announcement yesterday of the appointment of Professors as Chairmen of Local Government Education Authorities across the 21 local government areas in Kebbi state marked a significant milestone. This strategic decision serves as a crucial step towards ensuring that education is in safer capable hands, thus safeguarding the substantial investments made in the sector in the last 19 months of his unbroken chain of leadership conquests — an achievement unmatched by any previous Governor in Kebbi’s history.
The selection of these 21 Professors, all of Kebbi state origin and hailing from distinguished institutions, was highly competitive, reflecting the caliber of talent eager to contribute to improving educational outcomes. Notably, these Professors demonstrated humility and a commitment to service, willing to lend their expertise to enhance the educational framework at local levels, despite their accomplished positions.
Under the visionary guidance of Dr. Idris, the mission is clear: to sustain the momentum of reform, protect the investments in education, and uphold the highest standards of quality leadership to uphold the virtues of sound policy formulation and implementation. His administration emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical practices within education, ensuring accountability and adherence to established policies.
Kebbi state boasts a wealth of educated individuals across various fields, underscoring its commitment to scholarly pursuits. With over 170 Professors representing a diverse range of disciplines, Kebbi takes pride in its rich academic heritage rooted in Islamic scholarship, influenced by the teachings of Abdullahi Ibn Danfodio, a distinguished scholar and thinker in history.
This deep-seated respect for education is mirrored in Dr. Idris’s policies, fueling his dedication to amplifying the sector’s growth. Since taking office, his government has initiated extensive rehabilitation of existing schools and the construction of new educational facilities throughout the state. Notable initiatives include a sustainable feeding program, procurement of textbooks, establishment of laboratories, and improvements in school infrastructure, such as access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities—all aimed at remedying the neglect the education sector previously faced.
Additionally, the Governor has made provisions for the recruitment of 2,000 qualified teachers to accommodate the influx of new schools and address the growing demand for educators. For the first time, a newly established salary scale for teachers, aligned with a comprehensive remuneration policy, has been implemented, creating a more favorable and promising future for the teaching profession in Kebbi state.
Furthermore, four mega primary schools are under construction in key locations, including Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Yauri, and Zuru. These institutions are designed to incorporate skill acquisition into the curriculum, helping to nurture each child’s individual talents while preparing them for future employment or entrepreneurship. This forward-thinking approach aims to empower children to pursue their aspirations, fostering an environment where dreams can be realized and supported.
Kebbi state stands on the brink of a transformative journey, shedding the stagnation that has hindered its progress and paving the way for unprecedented development. The future is bright, as Kebbi rises from its past struggles into an era rich with possibilities for growth and success.
Yakubu Ahmed is the Commissioner of Information and Culture, Kebbi state
