The Honourable Minister of Education, Mr Maruf Alausa, reaffirmed his dedication to improving Unity Schools across Nigeria during an unannounced inspection of Queens College, Yaba, Lagos.
The visit aimed to evaluate the school’s infrastructure, leadership, and student welfare. Engaging directly with students, teachers, and principals, the Minister highlighted the pressing challenges facing the institution, which has outgrown its nearly century-old infrastructure.
In a statement by the Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, the Minister emphasised that the commitment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of delivering improved education for all Nigerians. He assured that Queens College, alongside other Unity Schools, would receive the necessary support to foster excellence in learning environments
He stressed the urgent need for significant upgrades to accommodate its growing student population effectively.
“In response, the Federal Ministry of Education will work closely with Queens College and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to design, renovate, and construct new facilities, including a library, dining areas, hostels, and classrooms, he said.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to the school’s leadership, staff, and students for their warm reception and pledged to advocate for better welfare packages for teachers and enhanced learning outcomes for students.
In the coming months, Alausa will extend his assessment to other Unity Schools and Federal Government Colleges through similar unannounced visits. This proactive approach underscores the Federal Ministry of Education’s resolve to ensure that every Unity School benefits from robust infrastructure, effective leadership, and a focus on student welfare.
The Principal of Queens College, Mrs. Oyindamola Obabori, appreciated the Minister’s visit, stating, “This morning, we were honoured to welcome the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, to Queen’s College on an unexpected visit.
“His arrival coincided with our morning assembly, which he joined and participated in, delighting both staff and students. After addressing the students and teachers, we took him on a tour of our facilities, including the kitchen, hostels, clinic, classrooms, and hall, where he observed students taking their exams.
“The Honourable Minister expressed satisfaction with our preparedness and organisation, commending our efforts and recognising Queen’s College as a standard for educational excellence, while also offering constructive suggestions for improvement and assuring us of the ministry’s support,” she said.
She said the initiative is part of a broader effort to establish standard capacities across all Unity Schools and Federal Government Colleges, ensuring optimal student-to-teacher ratios, adequate resources, and conducive boarding and feeding arrangements.
Dominica Nwabufo
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