In a significant move to bolster the education sector and ensure equitable access to quality learning opportunities, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the release of over N1.1 billion for critical interventions in tertiary education and the settlement of outstanding registration fees for indigent students across Nigeria. The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Alhaji Isah Abubakar-Tunga, during a press briefing held in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, on Thursday, September 18, 2025. This landmark initiative underscores the governor’s commitment to transforming the educational landscape of Kebbi State, positioning its institutions to compete favorably with their counterparts nationwide.
A Strategic Investment in Education
The approved funds, totaling more than N1.1 billion, are earmarked for a series of targeted projects designed to address infrastructural deficits, enhance institutional capacity, and alleviate financial burdens on students from Kebbi State. According to Commissioner Abubakar-Tunga, the governor’s approval reflects a deliberate effort to prioritize education as a cornerstone of sustainable development and societal progress. “Governor Nasir Idris has demonstrated, through this intervention, an unwavering dedication to improving access to quality education for all citizens of Kebbi State,” the commissioner stated. He emphasized that the initiatives are part of a broader vision to empower the younger generation, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the state’s growth and development.
The commissioner’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria’s education sector faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and financial barriers that prevent many students from pursuing higher education. By addressing these issues head-on, Governor Idris is positioning Kebbi State as a model for educational reform in Nigeria’s northern region, where access to quality education has historically lagged behind other parts of the country.
Breakdown of the Approved Funds
The N1.1 billion allocation is distributed across three major areas of intervention, each aimed at addressing specific needs within the state’s education system. These include infrastructural upgrades, the equipping of a newly established institution, and financial support for indigent students. Below is a detailed breakdown of the approved projects:
1. Renovation of Students’ Hostels at the State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega
A significant portion of the funds, amounting to N230.2 million, has been allocated for the renovation of three key students’ hostels at the State College of Health Sciences and Technology in Jega. The hostels, identified as Abdulsalam Nagimbana, Bush House, and Emir Haruna Rasheed, have been in dire need of rehabilitation to provide conducive living conditions for students. The renovation project will address structural deficiencies, improve sanitation facilities, and enhance the overall living environment for students residing on campus.
The State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, plays a critical role in training healthcare professionals who serve not only Kebbi State but also the broader northwestern region of Nigeria. The institution offers programs in fields such as community health, medical laboratory technology, and environmental health, among others. However, the poor state of its hostels has been a longstanding concern, with students often facing overcrowded rooms, inadequate water supply, and dilapidated facilities. The renovation of these hostels is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for students, enabling them to focus on their studies without the added stress of substandard accommodations.
Commissioner Abubakar-Tunga noted that the hostel renovation project is a testament to the governor’s understanding of the link between a conducive learning environment and academic success. “When students live in comfortable and safe accommodations, they are better positioned to excel academically and contribute to the development of our state,” he said. The project is also expected to increase the institution’s capacity to accommodate more students, thereby expanding access to health-related education in Kebbi State.
2. Procurement of Equipment for the College of Midwifery, Ambursa
Another major component of the approved funds, totaling N251.5 million, is dedicated to the procurement of essential equipment for the newly established College of Midwifery in Ambursa, Birnin Kebbi. This allocation will facilitate the equipping of critical facilities, including the library, demonstration room, ICT center, sick bay, physical sciences laboratory, and microbiology laboratory. The establishment of the College of Midwifery is a strategic move by the Kebbi State government to address the shortage of skilled midwives in the state, which has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in Nigeria.
The importance of midwifery training cannot be overstated in a region where access to quality maternal healthcare remains a challenge. According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria accounts for a significant proportion of global maternal deaths, with many of these fatalities occurring in rural areas where skilled healthcare providers are scarce. The College of Midwifery, Ambursa, aims to bridge this gap by training competent midwives who can deliver life-saving care to pregnant women and newborns.
The approved funds will ensure that the college is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support both theoretical and practical training. For instance, the microbiology laboratory will enable students to study pathogens and infection control, while the ICT center will provide access to digital resources and e-learning platforms. The demonstration room will serve as a hands-on training space where students can practice essential midwifery skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. By investing in these facilities, the Kebbi State government is laying the foundation for a robust midwifery training program that will have a lasting impact on public health outcomes in the state.
Commissioner Abubakar-Tunga highlighted the significance of this investment, noting that it aligns with the governor’s broader agenda to improve healthcare delivery in Kebbi State. “The establishment of the College of Midwifery is a game-changer for our state. By equipping this institution with the necessary tools, we are ensuring that our midwives are well-prepared to save lives and improve the health of our communities,” he said.
3. Payment of Outstanding Registration Fees for Indigent Students
The largest portion of the approved funds, amounting to N695.9 million, has been allocated for the payment of outstanding registration fees for Kebbi State students studying at various tertiary institutions across Nigeria for the 2024/2025 academic session. This initiative targets indigent students who face financial barriers to continuing their education, particularly those from low-income families who struggle to afford tuition and other associated costs.
The decision to clear these outstanding fees reflects Governor Idris’ recognition of the financial hardships faced by many students in Kebbi State. For many families, the cost of higher education is prohibitive, leading to high dropout rates and unfulfilled academic aspirations. By covering these fees, the state government is ensuring that no student is denied access to education due to financial constraints. The initiative covers students enrolled in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions across the country, demonstrating the governor’s commitment to supporting Kebbi State indigenes regardless of where they choose to study.
This intervention is particularly significant in the context of Nigeria’s economic challenges, including rising inflation and unemployment, which have made it increasingly difficult for families to finance higher education. By alleviating this burden, the Kebbi State government is not only supporting individual students but also investing in the state’s human capital development. Educated citizens are more likely to contribute to economic growth, innovation, and social stability, making this initiative a strategic investment in the state’s future.
Commissioner Abubakar-Tunga described the fee payment program as a “lifeline” for indigent students, noting that it would enable thousands of young people to continue their education without interruption. “Education is the key to unlocking opportunities, and Governor Idris is ensuring that no child in Kebbi State is left behind,” he said. The commissioner also urged beneficiaries to take their studies seriously and strive for academic excellence, as a way of repaying the government’s investment in their future.
The Broader Context of Educational Reform in Kebbi State
The approval of over N1.1 billion for these educational interventions is part of a broader agenda by the Idris administration to transform Kebbi State into a hub of academic excellence and innovation. Since assuming office, Governor Idris has made education a top priority, recognizing its role as a catalyst for economic development, poverty reduction, and social cohesion. The state government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving access to education, enhancing teacher training, and upgrading school infrastructure across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
At the tertiary level, the focus has been on strengthening institutions to produce graduates who are competitive in the national and global job markets. This includes investments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs, as well as vocational and technical education to address the skills gap in the state’s workforce. The renovation of hostels and the equipping of the College of Midwifery are aligned with these goals, as they aim to create conducive environments for learning and produce graduates who can meet the demands of critical sectors such as healthcare.
The payment of registration fees for indigent students also complements the state’s efforts to promote inclusivity and equity in education. Kebbi State, like many parts of northern Nigeria, has historically faced challenges such as low school enrollment rates, particularly among girls, and high levels of poverty that limit access to education. By addressing these barriers, the Idris administration is working to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills.
Implications for Kebbi State and Beyond
The approval of over N1.1 billion for education is expected to have far-reaching implications for Kebbi State and its residents. At the institutional level, the renovation of hostels and the equipping of the College of Midwifery will enhance the capacity of tertiary institutions to deliver quality education and training. This, in turn, will improve the reputation of Kebbi State’s educational institutions, attracting more students and potentially generating revenue through increased enrollment.
The payment of registration fees for indigent students will have a direct impact on thousands of families, enabling young people to pursue their academic dreams and break the cycle of poverty. By investing in education, the state government is empowering its youth to become productive members of society, capable of contributing to the state’s economic and social development. This initiative also sends a powerful message about the importance of education as a public good, encouraging other states to adopt similar measures to support their students.
On a broader scale, these interventions align with Nigeria’s national development goals, particularly those outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education, is directly supported by the Kebbi State government’s efforts to remove financial barriers and improve educational infrastructure. Similarly, the investment in midwifery training contributes to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, by addressing maternal and infant mortality rates.
Stakeholder Reactions and Calls for Support
The announcement of the N1.1 billion allocation has been met with widespread praise from stakeholders in Kebbi State’s education sector. Academic leaders, student unions, and community organizations have commended Governor Idris for his proactive approach to addressing the state’s educational challenges. The Vice-Chancellor of the State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, described the hostel renovation project as a “game-changer” that would transform the student experience and enhance the institution’s ability to deliver quality education.
Similarly, the leadership of the College of Midwifery, Ambursa, expressed gratitude for the government’s investment in equipping the institution. “This funding will ensure that our students receive world-class training, positioning them to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector,” a spokesperson for the college said.
Student leaders have also hailed the payment of registration fees as a lifeline for indigent students. The President of the Kebbi State Students’ Association called the initiative “a bold step towards educational equity” and urged students to make the most of the opportunity by excelling in their studies. “This is a rare privilege, and we must show our gratitude by working hard and making Kebbi State proud,” the president said.
Commissioner Abubakar-Tunga called on all citizens of Kebbi State to support the Idris administration’s efforts to transform the education sector. He urged students to remain disciplined and focused, parents to encourage their children to take education seriously, and community leaders to advocate for the importance of learning. The commissioner also appealed for continued prayers and goodwill from the public, emphasizing that the success of these initiatives depends on collective support and collaboration.
Challenges and the Way Forward
While the approval of over N1.1 billion is a significant step forward, the Kebbi State government must address several challenges to ensure the success of these initiatives. One key challenge is the need for effective project implementation and monitoring to ensure that the funds are used efficiently and transparently. The government must put in place robust mechanisms to track the progress of the hostel renovations and the equipping of the College of Midwifery, ensuring that contractors deliver high-quality work within the stipulated timelines.
Another challenge is the sustainability of the fee payment program for indigent students. While the current allocation covers the 2024/2025 academic session, the government must develop a long-term strategy to support students in subsequent years. This could involve establishing a dedicated scholarship fund or partnering with private sector organizations to provide additional funding for education.
Furthermore, the state government must address the broader systemic issues affecting education in Kebbi State, such as teacher shortages, inadequate classroom facilities, and limited access to digital learning resources. By adopting a holistic approach that combines infrastructure development, teacher training, and curriculum reform, the government can create a sustainable and resilient education system that meets the needs of its citizens.
Conclusion
The approval of over N1.1 billion by Governor Nasir Idris for educational interventions in Kebbi State is a bold and visionary step towards transforming the state’s education sector. By investing in hostel renovations, equipping the College of Midwifery, and clearing outstanding registration fees for indigent students, the governor is demonstrating a deep commitment to improving access to quality education and empowering the next generation of Kebbi State’s leaders.
These initiatives not only address immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for long-term progress in education and healthcare. As Kebbi State continues to implement these projects, it has the potential to serve as a model for other states in Nigeria, proving that strategic investments in education can yield significant dividends for society as a whole. With the support of its citizens and stakeholders, Kebbi State is well on its way to achieving its vision of becoming a hub of academic excellence and opportunity.
