The Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, has described Governor Babagana Umara Zulum as ‘a pacesetter’ for what he called an exceptional investment in educational infrastructure in Borno State.
The minister gave the commendation on Wednesday in Maiduguri during the commissioning of two newly completed mega schools funded by the state government.
The schools are Kulogumna Mega Primary School and Government Day Secondary School, Kaleri, both equipped with laboratories, libraries and sports facilities for thousands of learners.
Alausa, who performed the tape-cutting ceremony, said he was impressed by the standard of infrastructure he has seen in Borno.
“I’m the Minister of Education and the chief education officer for the country.
I was humbled yesterday. The quality of primary, junior and senior secondary schools in Borno State blew me away. I have been to many universities and polytechnics in other states and they don’t have the kind of infrastructure I saw in a primary school in Borno,” he said.
He said Zulum’s approach reflects an understanding of governance and development priorities.
Earlier, the minister visited the government house where he commended Zulum for what he referred to as a model of leadership that could inspire other states.
Alausa also commissioned a Federal Government School in Ngarannam, Maiduguri, funded by the Islamic Development Bank and implemented through UBEC.
Zulum, in his remarks, said education remains central to rebuilding the state and preparing young people for future opportunities.
He said his administration will soon roll out new incentives for teachers including accommodation support and salary increase to boost motivation.
The governor said technical and vocational education will receive deliberate attention as part of the state’s long-term human capital plan.
He added that the state has already implemented minimum wage for teachers in primary and secondary schools.
The event marks another phase in Borno’s push to expand access to quality education after years of disruption caused by insurgency.
