Debunking The Falsehood On The State Of Education In Jigawa

By Comrade Danladi Abbah Aliyu

I write in response to a report published by Sahara Reporters titled “Hundreds of Pupils Are Learning Under Death Traps in Jigawa Due to Years of Neglect by Governor Namadi.”

The author of the story appears to be very economical with the truth regarding the transformation taking place in Jigawa State, particularly in the education sector.

Governor Namadi has vowed to spend his last kobo to ensure that every child has access to quality education at all levels, regardless of their parents’ economic status or geographical location.

It is also possible that the author was overwhelmed or consumed by sentiment, which prevented him from seeing the reality on the ground.

It is evident that the transformation which has taken place in the state’s education sector is unprecedented in the history of Jigawa. This transformation has attracted many reputable institutions, civil society organisations, trade unions, community organisations, private entities, and individuals to present awards of recognition to the governor.

It is very surprising to see a reasonable person spread lies to deny the reputation or achievements of someone who has already been noticed by all and shines like the sun. Such a person can be regarded as insensitive or sentimental.

When the sun rises, the palm of a hand cannot cover it. No matter how much effort one makes to hide the truth, it will certainly come out, no matter how long it takes.

As a professional teacher with over two decades of experience in Jigawa State, I consider it both a moral duty and a responsibility to respond to this publication. My intention is not to defend the government of Umar Namadi for personal or political reasons, but rather to ensure that fairness, accuracy, and justice prevail in public discourse.

The report in question appears to be either influenced by bias aimed at achieving certain political ends or written without a proper understanding of the realities within the Jigawa State education system.

To begin with, the issue of teachers’ welfare—particularly salaries—deserves clarification. At a time when several states are still struggling to implement the new national minimum wage of ₦70,000, Jigawa State has made commendable progress by prioritising teachers’ welfare and ensuring relative stability and motivation within the workforce.

In his first budget, the Governor allocated over 35 per cent of the state budget to education to ensure the speedy transformation of the sector. This enabled the state to recruit over 7,000 teachers (both permanent and temporary), sign memoranda of understanding with education partners, enhance mothers’ and community participation, increase annual student scholarships, review the school feeding program, and approve a minimum wage.

Given Governor Namadi’s commitment, the Nigerian Union of Teachers conferred on him an honorary award as the “Best Education Performing and Teachers’ Friendly Governor” for the year 2025.

Furthermore, regarding infrastructure, it is important to acknowledge that many schools across the state have undergone renovations and upgrades in recent years. While challenges may still exist in some areas, as is the case in any developing system, it is inaccurate to generalise the situation as one of widespread neglect.

In addition, the provision of classroom furniture and instructional materials has improved significantly. Many schools have been supplied with desks and other essential learning facilities, reflecting the government’s deliberate effort to enhance the teaching and learning environment.

The most recent recognition award presented to the Governor came from an academic institution. The Federal University Otuoke in Bayelsa State conferred an honorary Doctor of Science degree on Governor Umar Namadi in recognition of his contributions to education, governance, accountability, and sustainable development.

Equally noteworthy is the intervention in water and sanitation. Unlike in some regions where even access to clean drinking water remains a challenge, many schools in Jigawa State have been equipped with solar-powered water systems and functional sanitation facilities. These initiatives significantly improve the well-being and dignity of both students and teachers.

Under his 12-point agenda and educational reform, Governor Namadi increased the annual student scholarship by over 150 per cent to ensure it covers at least 50 per centt of students’ annual registration fees.

Recently, over 22,000 basic education teachers registered for a competence test to position them for appropriate training.

Over 12,000 mothers participated in school-monitoring mother groups to ensure teaching and learning took place, thereby improving learning outcomes.

In every local government, Governor Namadi appointed two advisers to assist him in monitoring and evaluating projects, policies, and programs aimed at revitalising the state’s educational sector.

Given the decades of negligence suffered by Jigawa State’s education sector, coupled with population explosion, it is not possible to address all the challenges militating against the sector overnight. However, the effort and passion demonstrated by Governor Namadi have rekindled hope of addressing all problems in the near future.

It is therefore important for media organisations, including Sahara Reporters, to uphold the principles of balanced and responsible journalism by presenting verified and comprehensive accounts rather than narratives that may mislead the public.

In conclusion, while no system is without its challenges, portraying Jigawa State’s education sector as entirely neglected is both misleading and unfair. Constructive criticism is welcome and necessary for progress, but it must be grounded in truth, objectivity, and a genuine commitment to the public interest.

– Comrade Aliyu is the Principal, GDSS Takalafiya, Jigawa State