Wike announces N177 billion for educational infrastructure in Abuja

• Says commitment exceeds UNESCO 26% benchmark

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced a monumental commitment of $1,045,176,470 (approximately N177 billion) for educational infrastructure development in Abuja.

He made this announcement during the sixth International Conference on Learning Cities held in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, where he was represented by the Minister of State for FCT, Mariya Mahmoud.

“This investment includes N3.5 billion in counterpart funding from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC),” the minister stated.

In a statement issued by the media aide to the Minister of State, Austine Elemue, Wike emphasised that the total commitment underscored the administration’s dedication to enhancing educational facilities across the territory. He noted that Abuja’s education budget exceeds UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 26% for educational allocations.

Wike detailed the impact of this investment, highlighting that 21 primary and junior secondary schools have been completely renovated and 30 senior secondary schools established. Additionally, he revealed a commitment of N14.5 billion for the completion and launch of the FCT University in Abaji.

“UNESCO recommends that member nations allocate at least 26% of their budgets to education to adequately address needs such as teacher training and infrastructure development,” he noted. “It might interest my audience to know that Abuja’s annual budget for education surpasses this benchmark.”

The minister reiterated the administration’s focus on teacher training and infrastructure improvement across all six area councils in Abuja. He affirmed a total commitment to maintaining Abuja’s status as a UNESCO Learning City, promoting a “whole school” approach that fosters peace, security, and global awareness through education.

The conference focused on strategies for climate action through lifelong learning and brought together representatives from various sectors, including policymakers and educators.