Wednesday May 6, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Following Governor Umo Eno’s approval, a series of strategic reforms aimed at strengthening basic education, including the introduction of a new curriculum, recruitment of additional teachers, and a multi-billion naira infrastructure intervention is underway in Akwa Ibom State.
The Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk, Ph.D., announced this during a press briefing held at the State SUBEB Headquarters in Uyo.
He revealed that the Governor has approved and released ₦5.9 billion for 2025 and 2026 intervention projects, emphasizing a shift from partial renovations to a more comprehensive approach.
“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,” he explained.
Hon. Etuk, however, expressed concern over rising cases of vandalism and theft of school facilities, calling on host communities to take ownership of government investments.
“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.
He outlined ongoing efforts by the board to improve teaching standards and create a more conducive learning environment for pupils across public primary and junior secondary schools.
A key highlight of the briefing was the planned rollout of a new curriculum for primary schools, which the Chairman described as a long-overdue development that will significantly enhance the quality of education in the state.
“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 said.
Addressing the issue of manpower, the SUBEB Chairman disclosed that the state government has approved the recruitment of 1,000 additional teachers to tackle the shortage currently affecting schools, noting that priority will be given to ICT and computer science graduates in order to strengthen digital education.
“We do not have enough teachers in our schools, therefore, we appealed to the Governor, and he has graciously approved the recruitment of 1,000 teachers. We are paying attention to ICT teachers because we already have computer labs that require qualified personnel,” he stated.
He also highlighted disputes between communities and school authorities over school lands, noting that such conflicts are negatively affecting school administration and student enrollment. He urged community leaders and School Management Committees to support, rather than hinder, the smooth operation of schools.
While appreciating the state government’s commitment to education, the education administrator stressed that strong foundational learning remains critical to overall development.
“If the foundation is not strong, nothing can function properly. That is why we must continue to invest in basic education,” he added.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Nsibiet John, commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritizing education, particularly the approval for teacher recruitment.
“The employment of over 1,000 teachers is a major step forward, especially for schools in rural communities, and will go a long way in strengthening basic education delivery,” he said.
He further called for strengthened Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and urged SUBEB to extend intervention efforts to schools facing infrastructure challenges, including QIC Primary School in Eket Local Government Area.
The SUBEB Chairman reaffirmed the board’s commitment to sustaining reforms, assuring that ongoing initiatives will significantly improve the standard of basic education and provide better learning outcomes for pupils across the state.