By John Moses
In a decisive move to raise educational standards, Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has increased the allocation for quality assurance from 2 per cent to 5 per cent of the Matching Grant given to states, signalling a renewed commitment to monitoring and improving learning outcomes.
Dr Aisha Garba, Executive Secretary of UBEC, made the announcement during a three-day training workshop in Abuja for senior education officials from across the country. The event brought together Zonal Directors and Quality Assurance leaders from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“This enhanced allocation demonstrates our resolve to back policy with resources,” Garba stated. “Quality assurance is not optional; it is integral to our goal of delivering equitable and effective education for all.”
She also unveiled a newly developed Basic Education Action Plan (BEAP) template. This tool, she explained, will improve planning, data analysis, monitoring, and performance reporting within Nigeria’s basic education system.
Garba emphasised that the training aimed to promote data-driven decision-making and align quality assurance practices with international benchmarks.
UBEC’s Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Mr Rasaq Akinyemi, reinforced this message, saying: “Effective quality assurance will help us build an education system that is resilient and responsive to the evolving needs of learners.”
The Director of Quality Assurance at UBEC, Mrs Ada Ogwuche, described the new approach as a shift in institutional culture. “Quality assurance must be continuous, internalised, and embedded in everyday practice. It must be led by skilled, committed evaluators.”
Mr Dele Owolabi, Quality Assurance Director for Ekiti State and Dean of SUBEB/UBEB Directors nationwide, urged participants to embrace collaboration and take full advantage of the training. “We are laying the groundwork for a school system that fosters innovation, vision, and long-term national growth,” he said.
The revised funding and capacity-building efforts reflect growing recognition that education reform in Nigeria depends not just on access, but on quality.
