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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) announced on Tuesday that it has unlocked more than N100 billion in previously unaccessed matching grants, with 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) beginning to actively draw on the funds to bolster basic education.
The commission explained that this development followed sustained, data-driven engagement with state governments, describing it as a major step towards addressing long-standing funding gaps in the basic education sector.
The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, disclosed this on Tuesday during the opening of the 29th quarterly meeting between UBEC management and the executive chairmen of the State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) in Abuja.
She said: “Through sustained, data-driven advocacy, we unlocked over N100 billion in previously unaccessed matching grants, with 30 states and the FCT now actively drawing down on basic education funds. We have adapted to the evolving needs of states’ basic education. I am pleased to announce that the revised Matching Grants Guidelines are now finalised, streamlined, transparent, and fit for purpose, strengthening our commitment to ensure every Nigerian child reaches their full academic potential.”
She revealed that over 8.7 million learners had benefited from improved learning conditions and instructional materials, while more than 244,000 teachers had been trained in inclusive pedagogy and digital literacy.
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Furthermore, she noted that UBEC has transitioned from identifying systemic challenges to implementing large-scale reforms under its 2025–2031 strategic blueprint.
Regarding the theme of the meeting, “Accelerating Basic Education Performance Through Digitally Enabled Coordination,” Garba urged stakeholders to move beyond merely acknowledging the importance of digital transformation to fully institutionalising it.
She stated that the commission, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, had expanded access to digital learning platforms and strengthened teachers’ capacity in digital pedagogy.
“The effectiveness of our systems and the learning outcomes of our children will depend on the actions we take. These transitions reflect our renewed role, not only as a funding institution but also as a systems enabler, driving alignment, strengthening delivery, and ensuring that impact is felt across all states,” she said.
She commended the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, for their leadership, as well as development partners for their continued support of the sector.
Garba reaffirmed UBEC’s commitment to working closely with SUBEBs to improve coordination, strengthen performance, and deliver measurable impact in basic education nationwide.
