Governor Yero Budgets N3.5bn For Education

NAN

Zaria (Kaduna) – Gov. Muktar Yero of Kaduna State on Saturday said the state government had earmarked N3.5 billion to develop the education sector in 2014.

Yero said this at the 2013 Annual General Meeting of Barewa Old Boys Association (BOBA) at Barewa College in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Represented by Alhaji Ibrahim Ali, the Commissioner for Education, Yero said the money would be used for new schools, rehabilitation of the existing ones and supply of facilities.

He advised members of BOBA and other schools old boys’ associations in the state to redouble efforts at complementing government stride toward rescuing dwindling educational standard.

“I want to restate that education had remained one of the topmost priorities of our administration. We will do everything within our power to revive it.

“However, we require the support and assistance from private individuals, associations and corporate organisations, to further safe the system,’’ he said.

In his speech, the BOBA National President, Dr Umaru Abdulmutallab, urged politicians to borrow a leaf from late Waziri Ibrahim, who advocated the slogan “Politics without bitterness’’.

“Remember, the constitution of Nigeria guarantees freedom of association.

“Our members, and indeed, other Nigerians should not look at politics, especially elections into political offices as a do or die affair, but be mindful of culture of humility, competence and accountability.’’

He thanked the state government for the support and sustained interest in the well-being of Barewa College.

Earlier, the Acting Principal of the college, Malam Tanimu Musa, said BOBA had assisted the college to facilitate payment of 10 English and Mathematics part-time teachers since 2009.

The other areas of BOBA assistance, according to him, include building of one VIP toilet and renovation of many others, rehabilitation of Muhammad Dikko Assembly Hall and the school main gate.

Musa assured that the college in collaboration with the state government and the college’s Parents Teachers Association were doing everything possible to make the college better.