Borno State Governor in Northeast Nigeria, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commissioned Government Day Secondary School and a new Higher Islamic College in Gajiganna, Magumeri Local Government Area, in efforts to revive education disrupted by insurgency.
The governor said the projects symbolise renewed hope for the people and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing learning opportunities for every child across the state.
According to him, one of the earliest steps taken was the establishment of the Borno Arabic and Sangaya Education Board, mandated to drive reforms to blend Islamic scholarship with modern education.
He noted that the government has already completed or advanced work on higher Islamic colleges across several local government areas, with plans to begin construction in the remaining seven councils, including Bayo, Shani, Hawul, Konduga, Kalabalge, Jere, Abadam and Guzamala.
Zulum also disclosed that contracts will soon be awarded for additional mega schools in Marama, Mafoni, Abaganaram, Maimusari and other parts of the state.
“In our reforms, we are safeguarding the cherished values of traditional Islamic learning while introducing science, mathematics, technology and vocational training. Graduates of these schools will have the chance to pursue further education anywhere in Nigeria,” the governor stated.
He further directed the Ministry of Education to introduce a one-meal-per-day programme in all higher Islamic colleges, saying the policy will motivate learners.
The governor also announced scholarships for nine girls, pledging full funding of their education up to university level.
At the Gajiganna commissioning, Zulum explained that the integrated school system will streamline non-formal Qur’anic learning into formal education, giving children the opportunity to study Islamic subjects alongside intensive literacy, numeracy, digital skills and vocational training.
“This initiative is a game-changer, especially for Northern Borno, where insurgency has left education far behind. We are determined to change that narrative,” he said.
The governor further hinted at stipends for parents to encourage school enrolment under the AGILE programme, in addition to other state-led interventions.
He stressed that traditional rulers and community leaders will be mobilised to promote a reading culture and ensure the inclusion of all children in school.