• Calls for Leadership Aligned with Educational Competence and Institutional Integrity

The Centre for Civil Relations, Open Dialogue, and Development (CCODED) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Ms. Aisha Garba as the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), citing concerns about her qualifications and the potential impact on the commission’s mandate.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, CCODED’s Executive Director, Amb. Austin Inaede, underscored the pivotal role of UBEC in laying the foundation for Nigeria’s educational system. He expressed apprehension that the current appointment may hinder the commission’s ability to fulfill its statutory responsibilities.

“UBEC was established under the Universal Basic Education Act of 2004 to address Nigeria’s enduring educational challenges and ensure free, compulsory, and universal basic education for all children. Its leadership must reflect academic excellence, professional expertise, and an intimate understanding of Nigeria’s educational landscape,” Inaede stated.

He emphasized that the commission has traditionally been led by individuals with advanced academic qualifications and substantial experience in education, attributes he argued were vital for confronting the systemic issues plaguing the sector.

“While Ms. Garba’s international development background is commendable, it does not align with the specialized qualifications and expertise needed to lead UBEC effectively,” he added.

Inaede warned that the appointment could politicize UBEC’s operations, undermine its credibility, and weaken public trust in governance. He stressed that safeguarding UBEC’s independence and professionalism was crucial to preserving its efficiency and fulfilling its mandate.

The group also raised concerns about the potential fallout of weak leadership at UBEC, particularly its implications for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to provide inclusive, equitable, and quality education. Inaede cautioned that such a scenario could jeopardize partnerships with international donors and organizations that prioritize capable and credible leadership.

In light of these concerns, CCODED urged President Tinubu to reverse Ms. Garba’s appointment and instead nominate a candidate with the requisite academic credentials, local experience, and strategic vision to lead UBEC effectively.

“This is not an attack on Ms. Garba or the President. It is a sincere plea to protect UBEC’s integrity and secure the future of Nigeria’s education system. Leadership at UBEC is too crucial to be entrusted to individuals without the appropriate qualifications and expertise,” Inaede stressed.

The organization further advocated for a more transparent and merit-based process for appointing leaders to key public institutions, reiterating its commitment to working with the government to reform and strengthen Nigeria’s education sector.