Zulum Represents Governors’ Forum at Teachers’ Summit, Praises Federal Education Reforms

By: Adamu Aliyu Ngulde

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum on Monday represented the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum at the National Teachers’ Summit in Abuja, where he praised the Federal Government’s recent investments in education and called them a sign of renewed commitment to the sector.

Speaking at the summit, held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Mr. Zulum highlighted the introduction of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), the strengthening of educational institutions and the recent salary review for federal university lecturers as policies that could help reverse long-standing challenges in the education system.

The governor said his administration remained committed to expanding access to education and strengthening human capital development in Borno State, a region that has faced years of disruption due to conflict.

The summit, convened by the Federal Ministry of Education, brought together policymakers, educators and development partners to assess the state of Nigeria’s education sector and improve the implementation of existing reforms.

The gathering also marked the formal launch of “Edu Revamp,” an initiative aimed at improving teacher capacity, integrating digital tools and promoting collaboration to enhance learning outcomes.

During the event, 12 teachers from across the country were honoured for outstanding service. Six teachers from the Universal Basic Education Board — one from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones — and six secondary school teachers received cash awards of ₦25 million each.

The overall best teacher award went to Solanke Francis Taiwo, who received ₦50 million.

Mr. Zulum commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for hosting the inaugural National Teachers’ Summit at the Presidential Villa, describing the move as a strong signal of the administration’s focus on education.

He also praised Mrs. Tinubu’s advocacy for girl-child education and her support for scholarships and grants aimed at reducing barriers for vulnerable children.

The governor further acknowledged the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, for what he described as reform-driven leadership in the sector.