Niger State Govt launches ₦1bn endowment fund for special needs education

The Niger State Government has announced a ₦1 billion endowment fund to construct educational facilities for children with special needs across the state’s 25 local government areas.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago made the announcement in Minna during the flag-off of the RISE project for four pilot schools. The project is a collaboration between the state government and donor partners to enhance special needs education.

Governor Bago acknowledged the high costs associated with educating children with special needs and emphasized the need for significant funding. He assured that the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) would ensure the timely execution of the project.

The governor also donated ₦50 million to the Farid Foundation and ₦25 million to each of the four pilot schools participating in the RISE project.

He also approved the establishment of a board under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to oversee special needs education. This board will initiate scholarships and mentorship programs for special education students at Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna.

Governor Bago commended Hajiya Aminat Jummai Gimba, CEO and Co-founder of the Farid Centre, for her advocacy for children with special needs. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting inclusive education.

Hajiya Aminat Jummai Gimba described the RISE project as a transformative initiative aimed at integrating children with special needs into inclusive learning environments in Bosso and Chanchaga local government areas.

She added that the project seeks to create a holistic and sustainable educational framework, inspired by the governor’s vision of expanding access to inclusive education for all children.

Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, Commissioner for Basic Education, highlighted the importance of integrating children with special needs into inclusive classrooms, noting that this would foster social skills, empathy, and help break down misconceptions about disabilities.

Muhammad Ibrahim Baba, Executive Chairman of NSUBEB, disclosed plans to implement an accelerated basic education curriculum to ensure access to basic education for all children.

In their goodwill messages, representatives of the Estu Nupe, Emir of Minna, and local government officials praised the Farid Centre’s efforts in advancing special needs education and ensuring no child is left behind.