Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani
Kaduna State Commissioner of Education, Prof. Abubakar Sambo, has called on northern states to replicate Governor Uba Sani’s model of strategic investment in education to deliver lasting development and stability.
Sambo made the call during the combined convocation lecture of Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi State, where he spoke on the theme, “Education, Security and Sustainable Development: The Role of Universities in Northern Nigeria.”
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Malam Ibraheem Musa, the commissioner said the Kaduna State Government’s education reforms are focused on expanding access, improving infrastructure, strengthening teachers, and reducing financial barriers to learning.
He disclosed that the state has recorded significant gains under the current administration, including the return of over 300,000 out-of-school children to classrooms.
Sambo added that the government has also implemented inclusive education policies targeting girls, children with disabilities, and those affected by conflict, thereby broadening opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Highlighting infrastructure development, the commissioner said more than 60 secondary schools have been constructed across the state, alongside over 2,300 new primary school classrooms, while hundreds of existing facilities have been renovated.
He further noted that over 33,000 teachers and education officers have been trained to improve teaching quality and school management, resulting in improved student performance.
According to him, the pass rate in the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) with five credits has risen from about 54 per cent to 67 per cent.
On skills development, Sambo revealed that the state government has expanded technical and vocational education through the establishment of the Kaduna State Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development (KIVTSD), with a capacity to produce 12,000 artisans annually.
He explained that the institute operates centres in Soba, Rigachikun and Samaru Kataf, covering the three senatorial zones of the state.
The commissioner said trainees are equipped with practical skills in areas such as welding, aluminium fabrication, fashion design, and solar panel installation, adding that participants are issued certificates upon completion of their programmes.
He emphasised that Kaduna’s approach demonstrates how sustained investment in education can address insecurity, promote economic growth, and foster long-term development, urging other northern states to adopt similar strategies.
