The Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, has inaugurated the remodelled multipurpose hall at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) headquarters, Makurdi.
He applauded the Executive Chairman of Benue SUBEB, Dr. Grace Adagba, for her outstanding achievements during her first year in office. He lauded her dynamic leadership, courage, and commitment, describing her as one of the State’s “change agents” who have proven to be a perfect fit for their roles.
He stressed the urgent need to strengthen the foundation of basic education, noting that it remains critical for the nation’s future. “Primary education is the foundation of academic excellence,” he said, adding that the task of repositioning it is vital to the growth of the State and the Nation.
He hailed Governor Hyacinth Iornem Alia for his strategic appointments, which have placed capable individuals in key sectors and urged Dr. Adagba to remain focused on her mandate and not succumb to distractions.
Dr. Adagba thanked the Deputy Governor for his support to basic education programmes and Governor Alia for his unwavering commitment to advancing basic education in the state. She highlighted the strides made under his leadership to include ongoing school projects, the construction of storey buildings in public schools, and the revitalisation of the Board headquarters. She also noted that prompt payment of salaries and the implementation of the minimum wage have boosted Staff morale.
The UBEC state Coordinator, Mr. Idzi Baba Emmanuel, in a goodwill message, commended Dr. Adagba’s leadership qualities and her dedication to taking basic education in Benue State to higher heights.
The hall, renamed the Fr. Alia Multipurpose Hall, is a significant addition to the Board’s facilities remodeled by Eduwaves Publishers as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR).
During the inauguration, awards were presented to outstanding staff for their exemplary service. Awardees in the Directors’ category included Dr. Terzungwe Akaa (Finance and Accounts), Dr. Karim Usman (Digital Resource Centre), Mr. Danladi Ochefu (Internal Auditor), and Mrs. Esther Unande (Academic Services). Other award recipients include Ruth Ikyo, Lois Gbenyi, Jeremiah Mtsenga, Eric Mchihi, Joseph Suwa, Mngunengen Songo, Samuel Mngule. Commendation letters were presented to Jude Tarbee, Ruth Kwaghkaha, Chia Ikpam, Salome Akpenpuun, Anongo Titus and Cletus Ikpilakaa for their dedication to work.
There was also a presentation of award plaques by the deputy governor to outstanding Staff.