The Forum of State Universal Basic Education Board chairmen (SUBEBs) has declared support for Hajiya Aisha Garba, the executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), amid what it described as a campaign of blackmail and misinformation against her.
Professor Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, dean of the forum, who stated this in a press statement yesterday, observed the recent publication in Sahara Reporters containing unsubstantiated allegations against the commission’s executive secretary.
The allegations, made during a press conference by an individual claiming to be an Education Rights Activist (ERAC), are not only spurious but a deliberate attempt to malign a public servant whose commitment to accountability and excellence is well established.
“We wish to categorically state that Hajiya Aisha Garba Mohammed enjoys the total and unwavering support of the 36 states SUBEB chairmen and the FCT. Her leadership has been nothing short of transformative.
“Under her watch, UBEC has recorded remarkable strides in improving the efficiency of fund disbursement, transparency in project monitoring, and direct intervention in addressing key foundational education challenges, particularly the issue of out-of-school children.
“Since she assumed office, Hajiya Garba has demonstrated outstanding professionalism, integrity, and vision. She has fostered synergy between UBEC and SUBEBs, strengthened institutional frameworks, and introduced innovative performance-based initiatives that are already yielding visible impact across states.
“The committee considers the allegations as a calculated smear campaign by retrogressive elements who are discomforted by Hajia Aisha Garba’s insistence on transparency and adherence to due process.”
The Forum dismissed the allegations as a “calculated smear campaign” orchestrated by individuals uncomfortable with Hajiya Aisha Garba’s firm stand on transparency, due process, and accountability.
“We assert with confidence that at no time has she deviated from her mandate. Her stewardship at UBEC remains a shining example of what public service should be selfless, principled, and development-oriented,” it added.
It called on Nigerians, the media, and development partners to disregard the publication, urging Sahara Reporters to practice responsible journalism by verifying facts before publication.
“We affirm her competence, integrity, and unrelenting dedication to the Nigerian child,” the statement concluded. “Hajiya Aisha Garba Mohammed remains a dependable partner in our collective quest to strengthen basic education and secure the future of our nation in line with the Renewed Hope education agenda.”
