UBEC increases quality assurance funding for states to 5%
By Uji A. Iliyasu, Abuja
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has announced an increase in the allocation for quality assurance activities from 2% to 5% of the matching grant provided to states. This move aims to enhance monitoring and evaluation mechanisms and improve the standard of basic education across Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr. Aisha Garba, made the announcement on Wednesday during a three-day refresher training and strategic meeting held in Abuja.
Dr. Garba explained that the increment reflects UBEC’s broader commitment to improving learning outcomes through data-driven decision-making and robust accountability systems in public schools. She emphasized that this step is not just about financial support but also a strategic investment in educational reform.
“Quality assurance is a central pillar of UBEC’s 2025–2028 strategic blueprint,” she stated. “In recognition of its importance, the Commission has reviewed the allocation from 2% to 5% of the matching grant to states,” she said.
She added that the decision was officially unveiled at the 26th Quarterly Meeting of UBEC Management and Executive Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs), held in Makurdi, Benue State, on May 25–26, 2025.
She said the ongoing training is designed to deepen participants’ knowledge, equip them with modern evaluation tools, and build their capacity to enhance education standards.
Dr. Garba urged participants to engage with open minds and adopt a solutions-focused approach, stressing the importance of using data to drive improvements in teaching and learning.
Also speaking at the event, UBEC’s Director of Quality Assurance, Madam Ada Ogwuche, highlighted that quality assurance is more than a periodic exercise—it is a continuous internal commitment and a culture of excellence.
“Quality assurance is not a one-time event or just an external requirement. It is a sustained internal commitment that demands continuous improvement and capacity-building among evaluators,” Ogwuche said.
Mr. Owolabi Dele, Director of Quality Assurance at Ekiti SUBEB and Dean of SUBEB/UBEB Directors, encouraged participants to engage actively throughout the training. He stressed that collaboration and shared learning are key to strengthening Nigeria’s education system.
“The work we do here goes beyond individual expertise,” he noted. “It reinforces the foundation of our education system—nurturing young minds, shaping future leaders, and driving national development.”