Category: Education

By Milcah  Tanimu

Lecturers from various universities have raised concerns about poor healthcare waste management in Nigeria. They highlighted the lack of knowledge among healthcare workers, insufficient data, and low public awareness. The experts gathered on Friday at the University of Medical Sciences in Ondo State to discuss the issue.

The event was themed “Legal, Policy, and Implementation Issues in Healthcare Waste Management.” It was organized by the Faculty of Health Law and Humanities, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health.

Professor Adesegun Fatusi, the Vice Chancellor, welcomed the participants. He emphasized the need for healthcare professionals to collaborate on improving waste management practices. He mentioned that UNIMED has developed guidelines for its campuses and suggested they be adopted nationwide.

The experts recommended that state governments create policies, regulations, and statutes to encourage best practices. They also urged the Federal and State governments to allocate specific funds for healthcare waste management. Expanding the environmental health workforce was also recommended to ensure effective implementation.

Professor Leroy Edozien, Dean of the Faculty of Health Law and Humanities, called for proactive government action. He emphasized the importance of training healthcare workers on proper waste management. Healthcare waste, he noted, poses serious risks to health workers, the public, and the environment. He urged stakeholders to take urgent action.

The meeting stressed the need for better policies, increased public awareness, and enhanced collaboration to tackle healthcare waste management in Nigeria.

By  Milcah  Tanimu

Covenant University has been ranked the best tertiary institution in Nigeria in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities Rankings. The university, owned by the Living Faith Church, achieved a global ranking position between 201-1000.

Nigeria’s Top Universities in THE 2025 Rankings

1. Covenant University: Global ranking 201-1000.
2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU): Ranked 1001-1200 globally.
3. Landmark University: Ranked 1001-1200 globally.
4. University of Ibadan (UI): Dropped to fourth place in Nigeria and 1001-1200 globally.
5. University of Lagos (UNILAG): Maintained its global position of 1001-1200 but dropped to fifth domestically.

Full List of Nigeria’s Top Universities (THE 2025 Rankings)

In addition to the top five, other notable universities in the top 10 include:

• Bayero University, Kano
• Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

The rankings feature institutions across the country, such as:

• University of Benin
• University of Ilorin
• Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
• Obafemi Awolowo University
• University of Port Harcourt
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University

Covenant University’s Achievements

Covenant University’s consistent excellence solidifies its position as a leader in education and research, reflecting its commitment to global standards.

Stay updated for further insights into these rankings and what they mean for Nigerian tertiary educatio

By Israel Adamu, Jos

In a move to enhance education within the community, the Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government Council in Plateau State, Hon. Pirfa Tyem, distributed chairs and desks to several Local Education Authority (LEA) schools on Tuesday.

This initiative fulfills one of Hon. Tyem’s campaign promises to raise the standard of education in the local government area.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Pirfa Tyem expressed his joy and pride, stating, “It is with immense joy and great pride that I stand before you today at this significant event—the flag-off and distribution of new seats and desks to our primary schools in Langtang North Local Government Area.”

The council chairman highlighted that the project was made possible through the support of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), describing it as a pivotal moment in improving education for the children of the area.

“Today, we are not just distributing furniture; we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for our young minds,” he said. “The seven beneficiary schools—LEA Shiko, LEA Wallang, LEA Kankur, LEA Limun South, LEA Pakuk, LEA Mban, and LEA Gwandamung—will now have the essential tools to create an environment conducive to learning.”

Hon. Tyem emphasized the importance of education as the bedrock of society and reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing children with the resources they need to succeed.

“By providing these new seats and desks, we are investing in their future and ensuring they can focus on their studies to reach their full potential,” he added.

The council chairman expressed gratitude to SUBEB for its unwavering support and partnership in enhancing education in Langtang North.

“To the headteachers and teachers of the beneficiary schools, I urge you to use this opportunity to inspire and nurture the talents of our pupils. Let these resources remind us all of our shared responsibility to guide our children toward excellence,” he said.

Hon. Tyem also addressed parents, urging them to support their children’s education actively. “Your involvement in your children’s education is crucial. Encourage them to utilize these new facilities to the best of their abilities. Together, let us instill the values of hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge,” he said.

In a message to the pupils, he encouraged them to treat the new furniture with care and embrace education as a powerful tool for personal and societal transformation.

“Treat these new seats and desks with care, and let them inspire you to dream big and achieve great things,” he said.

Hon. Tyem called on the people of Langtang North and Plateau State to continue supporting his administration and the state government led by Bar Caleb Mutfwang. “Together, let us build a future where every child in Langtang North has access to quality education and the resources they need to succeed,” he concluded.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

The Principal of TBT College, Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, Mr. Peter Akura, has commended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s decision to create separate ministries for Basic Education, Secondary Education, and Tertiary Education. He believes this restructuring will significantly enhance the supervision and monitoring of government policies and programs in the education sector.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Daybreak in his office, Mr. Akura explained that the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management had become overburdened with responsibilities. He emphasized that splitting the ministry into two distinct entities would enable better focus and more effective follow-up on educational initiatives.

Governor Alia’s Educational Reform

Governor Hyacinth Alia recently announced the creation of the new ministries during a meeting with principals of government and grant-aided schools in Makurdi. The reform aims to accelerate educational development and address long-standing challenges in the sector.

Mr. Akura applauded this move, stating, “The creation of Basic Education, Secondary, and Tertiary Education Ministries ensures proper monitoring of schools. The Ministry of Education, as a single entity, had too many responsibilities, which made it difficult to manage effectively.”

He further noted that the establishment of the Basic Education Ministry would focus on laying a strong foundation for learning, while the Secondary and Tertiary Education Ministries would enhance advanced education.

Benefits of the New Structure

According to Mr. Akura, splitting the ministry will foster healthy competition between the two entities and ensure closer supervision of schools, leading to more effective learning and implementation of government policies.

“This will allow for proper follow-up and supervision, creating an environment where Benue students can compete effectively with their peers from other states,” he said.

Education Funding in the 2025 Budget

Highlighting the increased allocation to the education sector in the 2025 state budget, Mr. Akura expressed optimism that the funds, if properly utilized, would address critical issues such as inadequate infrastructure and the shortage of qualified personnel.

“With sufficient resources allocated to the education sector, we can tackle the gaps in infrastructure and human resources. This will create a more robust and efficient education system,” he added.

The Principal concluded by emphasizing that the reform, coupled with adequate funding, would position Benue State’s education system for long-term success and competitiveness.

By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Professor A.L. Ala, paid an unscheduled visit to Sani Dingyadi Unity Secondary School, Sokoto, where he interacted with both students and staff.

Addressing the students during the morning assembly, Professor Ala encouraged them to remain focused on their studies and make the most of their educational opportunities. He emphasized the importance of education as a tool for personal and societal development.

The Commissioner also urged the staff to remain committed to their teaching duties, highlighting the critical role they play in delivering quality education.

Professor Ala was warmly received by the school’s Principal, Malam Sanusi Bello, who accompanied him on a tour of the school facilities during the visit.

According to the Ministry’s Information Officer, Ibrahim Iya, the visit reflects the Ministry’s dedication to improving educational standards and fostering accountability and excellence in the sector. The Commissioner’s engagement with students and staff reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive learning environment for all.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has ordered the immediate cessation of the requirement for Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) as a prerequisite for admission into tertiary institutions in the state.

This directive was announced by the Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), Alhaji Salihu Sule Enehe, during a media briefing in Lokoja on Wednesday.

Enehe explained that the decision was prompted by public outcry over the hardship faced by citizens, aligning with the administration’s commitment to alleviating burdens on the populace.

“Parents and guardians are no longer required to present a TCC when registering their children or wards for educational purposes. However, KGIRS will ensure that every taxable citizen fulfills their obligation to pay taxes to support development,” he said.

The chairman also cautioned against tax evasion, warning that offenders could face penalties such as fines or imprisonment for up to six months.

Despite the suspension of the TCC requirement, Enehe noted that students whose parents fail to pay taxes might still be denied certain privileges and benefits.

Regarding illegal revenue collection, Enehe revealed that the KGIRS is intensifying efforts to curb such practices. He reported the arrest of 41 individuals involved in unauthorized tax collection, all of whom are now facing prosecution.

Enehe urged journalists to assist in exposing illegal revenue collectors, emphasizing that their actions not only defraud individuals but also deprive the state government of essential revenue.

The move reflects the government’s resolve to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for education while ensuring compliance with tax laws.

By Isreal Adamu, Jos

Plateau State University Bokkos (PLASU) has secured approval from regulatory authorities to introduce six new academic programs, marking a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to expand its academic offerings.

This development was announced in a statement signed by Masara Kim, the Acting Public Relations Officer of Plateau State University Bokkos, and made available to news outlets in Jos.

The statement highlighted that the new programs include degrees in Medical Sciences (MBBS), Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm D.), Statistics (B.Sc.), and Religious Studies (B.A.). Additionally, the university has received endorsement from professional bodies for its Law and Nursing Science programs.

“The development was announced by the Acting Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the university’s Senate, Professor Shedrack Gaya Best, during the 92nd Regular Meeting of the Senate,” the statement read.

Professor Best attributed the achievement to the unwavering support and commitment of the State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, towards the university’s growth.

“We are pleased to announce that we have received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for all these programs,” said Prof. Best.

The NUC granted PLASU approval to launch the programs following resource verification visits conducted last year to assess the university’s preparedness.

Additionally, the Council of Legal Education and the Nursing Council have formally approved the newly established Law and Nursing Science programs.

Prof. Best expressed gratitude to the regulatory authorities for their support of the state government’s efforts to enhance learning at PLASU. He also pledged the university management’s continued commitment to staff welfare for optimal productivity.

“The stability of the academic calendar depends on the quality of academic relationships within the university,” Prof. Best acknowledged. “As long as it is within the purview of the university and the management, there is nothing of a welfare nature that belongs to any union that this management is sitting on.”

The Acting VC also appealed for patience regarding delays in the implementation of the new national minimum wage for university staff.

“I know that the way to stay in peace with people is to give them what is due to them. That is the principle of management. But some matters are process-based,” said Prof. Best. “The minimum wage involves a process. It has already been implemented for civil servants, but the university operates outside the civil service system. However, we are doing our best to negotiate with officials at the state level.”

In other developments, the Senate received reports on the resumption of academic activities after the Christmas and New Year breaks. Efforts to improve campus security are also underway, including the issuance of ID cards and approval for hostel accommodation access for appropriate categories of students.

As PLASU continues to expand its academic offerings, it remains committed to providing quality education and promoting a safe and secure learning environment, the statement further added.

By Isreal Adamu, Jos

Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, has commended the Plateau State Government for donating a brand-new 36-seater bus to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by its staff and students.

The bus, presented on January 10, arrived mere hours after the university formally sought the government’s intervention. This quick response highlights the administration’s commitment to addressing pressing issues, as noted by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

The donation was facilitated by the 17 local government councils in Plateau State, coordinated by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ephraim Usman. The bus was handed over to the university management at the old government house in Jos.

Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Shedrack Best explained that many university staff and students live in Jos—approximately 40 miles away—due to limited accommodation in Bokkos, creating significant transportation hurdles.

“This situation affects the university’s service delivery, as staff must commute daily between Jos and Bokkos,” Prof. Best stated.

Governor Mutfwang lauded the collaborative efforts of the local government councils, emphasizing the importance of synergy in governance.

“The state and local governments must prioritize efficiency over autonomy. Collaboration and teamwork are vital for progress,” the governor remarked.

He also reiterated the administration’s dedication to supporting the university’s growth, stating, “PLASU deserves every support to achieve its rightful position among Nigeria’s universities.”

A statement from PLASU’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Masara Kim, highlighted the institution’s challenges. Over 95% of its workforce currently commutes from Jos, a situation exacerbated by safety concerns following the December 2023 crisis.

“We have depended heavily on vehicular transport for our staff, but the crisis has worsened this reliance,” Prof. Best noted. “This donation is a crucial step toward addressing our transportation needs.”

The Acting VC also appealed for further support, urging the government to provide additional buses capable of navigating the difficult road conditions to Bokkos.

“The buses operating in the metropolis are not suited for the roads leading to our university. We need vehicles designed for these terrains to ensure our staff and students benefit fully from this initiative,” he added.

Prof. Best expressed hope that this intervention would be the first of many aimed at improving the university’s operational efficiency and welfare.

Prof. Hafiz Praises Governor Yusuf, Prays for Another Term

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has taken a significant step to address the transportation challenges faced by students of tertiary institutions across the state. The governor recently handed over 12 shuttle buses to the Ministry for Higher Education to facilitate student mobility.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, these buses will provide daily transportation services for students in all 44 local government areas of the state.

The buses were previously recovered from associates of the previous administration, who had removed them from Kano. After their retrieval, the state government, through the Ministry of Transportation, refurbished the vehicles to ensure they are fully functional and ready for use.

“We have recovered, refurbished, and reintroduced these buses to assist our students in tertiary institutions by alleviating the transportation difficulties they face,” the governor stated.

As part of the initiative, students will enjoy an 80% discount on fares, making the service more affordable. Governor Yusuf also issued a stern warning to bus managers and drivers to handle the vehicles responsibly to ensure their longevity and efficiency.

Additionally, he urged students to cooperate with the government in maintaining the buses, emphasizing the importance of discipline and orderliness.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Higher Education, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, commended Governor Yusuf for his thoughtful intervention. He assured the public that the buses would be utilized effectively to achieve their intended purpose.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Transportation, Alhaji Ibrahim Ali Namadi Dala, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to refurbish the buses to meet global standards, ensuring their roadworthiness and reliability.

On behalf of parents, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Governing Council of North West University, described the gesture as timely and commendable. He prayed for Governor Yusuf to secure another term in office, acknowledging his commitment to advancing the state.