Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has commissioned the renovation, expansion and upgrade of his alma mater, Government Science Secondary School (GSSS), Yabo, in Sokoto State, with the project valued at over ₦1 billion.
The commissioning ceremony, held on Thursday, was performed by the District Head of Sabon Birni and Sarkin Gobir of Sabon Birni, Alhaji Abdullahi Dangaladima, who was also Governor Aliyu’s former principal.
Reflecting on the governor’s days as a student, the traditional ruler expressed pride in witnessing one of his former students rise to public office and give back to the institution that helped shape his future.
“I am greatly happy that one of my former students has grown, became responsible and decided to remember his educational roots by giving back to this very school, GSSS, Yabo, being his Alma mater.”
He described the governor’s investment in education as a demonstration of purposeful leadership, noting that sustainable development depends on quality educational investments.
“True leadership is determined by the quality of investment especially in the education of the future generations.”
Alhaji Dangaladima also expressed appreciation to Governor Aliyu for appointing him to the traditional stool of Sarkin Gobir of Sabon Birni.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aliyu said the occasion was deeply personal because it provided him with an opportunity to return to the school where he received his secondary education and contribute to its development.
He recalled that during his time at the institution, GSSS Yabo was renowned for its quality infrastructure, academic excellence and vibrant extracurricular activities.
The governor, however, lamented the deterioration of those facilities over the years, saying the intervention became necessary to restore the school to its former standard.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening education across Sokoto State by providing schools with the infrastructure and resources needed to deliver quality learning.
“This event has also given us the chance to reunite and rekindle friendships as well as celebrate enduring bonds.
“Knowledge especially Science and Technology remain the prime mover in development and modernization.”
Governor Aliyu further stated that education remains a major pillar of his administration’s 9-Point Smart Agenda, adding that his government has consistently demonstrated that commitment by allocating more than the 25 per cent benchmark recommended by UNESCO for the education sector.
As part of measures to improve students’ welfare, the governor announced an increase of more than 300 per cent in the feeding allowance for students of the school.
He also urged parents to ensure their children receive both Islamic and Western education, stressing that a balanced educational background would better prepare them to compete in today’s global environment.
