New Borno education commissioner Wakilbe appreciates Zulum’s trust, confidence

Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe has resumed office as the Honorable Commissioner Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation in Borno State.

In a brief ceremony at the ministry, Wakilbe expressed his gratitude to Governor Zulum for entrusting him with this important role. Engr Wakilbe’s main focus as Commissioner is to improve access to quality education for underprivileged children by raising standards in public schools.

Addressing the challenges caused by insurgency in the state, Engr Wakilbe plans to tackle the issue of the 1.8 million out-of-school children and provide training for over-aged children and youths in vocational and entrepreneurship skills. He believes that these initiatives will help in solving the current problems facing the state and the nation, as poor education is a major root cause.

Engr Wakilbe’s policy thrust covers various sectors. In basic education, he aims to reposition the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), recamp primary schools through intensive supervision, eliminate absenteeism among teachers, decongest schools, and employ more qualified teachers. For secondary education, he plans to relocate and re-establish schools in different areas, establish Higher Islamic Colleges, recruit more teachers, and improve school infrastructure and science equipment.

In the field of vocational and entrepreneurship training, Engr Wakilbe seeks sustainable funding for existing institutes, the commencement of new institutes in various locations, and the provision of starter packs and grants for trainees. He also aims to strengthen higher education institutions, focusing on academic excellence and training students in entrepreneurship skills.

Engr Wakilbe recognizes the importance of science, technology, and innovation for economic development and plans to reintroduce competitions, support research and development, and promote ICT development, the introduction of new fields like robotics and artificial intelligence.

Engr Wakilbe concluded his speech by thanking the staff of the Ministry of Education, the Teaching Service Board, and the State Universal Basic Education Board for their support. He also expressed his gratitude to the people of Borno State for their encouragement and good wishes.

Engr Abba Wakilbe feels honored and privileged to serve as the Hon Commissioner of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation in Borno State.