By Zara Maisango
In a groundbreaking move towards inclusive education, the Niger State government has announced a N1 billion endowment fund for the construction of facilities dedicated to children with special needs across its 25 local government areas.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago made the declaration in Minna during the flag-off of the RISE project, a collaborative initiative between the state and donor partners aimed at integrating special needs children into mainstream education. Acknowledging the high costs associated with special education, he assured that the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) would ensure swift execution of the project.
Further demonstrating his commitment, Governor Bago donated N50 million to the Farid Foundation and N25 million each to the four pilot schools under the RISE project. He also approved the establishment of a Board under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, tasked with overseeing special education programs and facilitating scholarships and mentorships at Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna.
Hajiya Aminat Jummai Gimba, CEO and Co-founder of the Farid Centre, hailed the RISE project as a bold and transformative initiative, designed to break barriers for children with disabilities in Bosso and Chanchaga local governments. She credited Governor Bago’s vision for ensuring no child is left behind in the pursuit of quality education.
Echoing this sentiment, Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, emphasized the importance of inclusive learning, highlighting its role in promoting social skills and dismantling misconceptions about disabilities. Similarly, NSUBEB Chairman Muhammad Ibrahim Baba revealed plans for an accelerated basic education curriculum, ensuring educational access for all.
The initiative received praise from traditional leaders, local government officials, and education stakeholders, who lauded the government’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable children.
With this unprecedented funding, Niger State is setting a new standard for special needs education in Nigeria, proving that every child deserves a chance to learn and thrive.
