Abia State Universal Basic Education Board

ABIA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SMART SCHOOL INITIATIVE AS UBEC COMMITTEE COMMENDS GOVERNOR OTTI'S EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION.

Governor of Abia State, Alex Chioma Otti has reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to the successful implementation of the Federal Government's Smart School Initiative, describing it as a strategic intervention that aligns with the state's education transformation agenda aimed at equipping learners with 21st-century digital and technological skills.

The Governor's position was conveyed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, when he received the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Committee on Smart Schools during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Umuahia, as part of the Committee's two-day assessment of the UBEC Smart School at Umuajuju in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Dr. Meribole commended the Federal Ministry of Education and the Universal Basic Education Commission for championing technology-driven education through the Smart School Initiative, noting that the programme perfectly complements the Abia State Government's vision of expanding access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education across both urban and rural communities.

He disclosed that the Otti administration is constructing 20 Smart Schools strategically located across the State to bridge the digital divide, enhance access to innovative learning and position Abia children to compete effectively in the global knowledge economy.

Dr. Meribole further noted that the State Government's commitment to education is reflected in the allocation of about 20 percent of the State's annual budget to the sector, underscoring the administration's determination to provide equitable, inclusive and quality education for every child. He assured the Federal Government of Abia State's full cooperation in ensuring the successful implementation and sustainability of the Smart School Programme.

Earlier, the Dean of SUBEB Chairmen and Chairman of the UBEC Ministerial Committee on Smart Schools, Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, said the Committee was constituted by the Federal Ministry of Education under the leadership of the Hon. Minister, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, to assess the level of completion of Smart Schools, evaluate their operational readiness, identify challenges, engage critical stakeholders and recommend measures to ensure the effective take-off of the initiative nationwide by September.

Prof. Adaramaja explained that the Committee's engagement with contractors, implementing agencies and stakeholders was aimed at ensuring that Smart Schools across the federation become fully operational and deliver quality digital learning from the new academic session.

He commended Governor Otti for his remarkable investment in education and the far-reaching reforms introduced by his administration, describing Abia as one of Nigeria's leading states in educational transformation. He also praised the Hon. Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education and the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) for their commitment to the effective implementation of the Universal Basic Education policy, while reaffirming UBEC's continued support towards strengthening quality basic education in the State.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Chinedu Ubochi, described the UBEC Smart School Initiative as being in perfect alignment with the AbiaFirst Education Programme of the Otti administration.
He noted that the State Government has already commissioned two state-owned Smart Schools—Ogbo Central Smart School, Ubakala, and Umuomaiukwu Smart School—as part of deliberate efforts to revolutionise teaching and learning through digital innovation.

According to him, the establishment of Smart Schools is designed to provide every Abia child, irrespective of background or location, with access to a conducive, technology-driven learning environment capable of preparing them for global competitiveness. He commended Governor Otti's visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to inclusive, accessible and quality education, stressing that no child would be left behind.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of ASUBEB, Ambassador Ezihe Lydia Onuoha, appreciated the UBEC Ministerial Committee for its commitment to ensuring that Smart Schools across the country meet global standards.

She noted that the initiative complements the AbiaFirst Education Programme, which prioritises innovation, digital learning, quality teaching and the development of globally competitive learners. Ambassador Onuoha reaffirmed ASUBEB's commitment to sustaining collaboration with UBEC and other stakeholders towards advancing basic education in Abia State.

The visit was attended by ASUBEB Board Members, Dr. Onyebuchi Onyegbule, Deaconess Nwachi Nwogwogwo and Hon. Harrison Onuke; the Board Secretary, Dr. Uzoamaka Amah Mbah; UBEC Smart School Focal Person, Hajia Hafsat Lawal; Secretary of the UBEC Ministerial Committee, Suad Galadanci; Senior Special Assistant to the Hon. Minister on UBEC Matters, Prof. Ali Idris, and other senior officials.

Ekeoma Lekwauwa
Public Relations Officer
Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB).

PRESS RELEASE
ABIA DEEPENS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION AS ASUBEB HOSTS GSCCEI STATE-LEVEL STEP-DOWN TRAINING

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable, climate-resilient education system as the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), commenced the State-Level Step-Down Training for Master Trainers on the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Intervention (GSCCEI) 2024.

The training, held at the ASUBEB Board Room, Umuahia, brought together education stakeholders, environmental experts, development partners, and participants drawn from the 17 LGEAs across the State to strengthen the integration of climate change education and environmental sustainability into basic education.

In her Keynote Address, the Executive Chairman of ASUBEB, Amb. Ezihe Lydia Onuoha, described climate change as one of the greatest challenges confronting humanity, stressing that schools must become centres for nurturing environmentally conscious learners equipped with the knowledge, values, and practical skills needed to safeguard the environment and build a sustainable future.

She noted that the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Intervention aligns seamlessly with Governor Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR's transformative AbiaFirst Education Programme, which is repositioning the State's education sector through innovation, sustainability, technology, and global best practices and for championing climate-conscious educational initiatives.
“The Governor's unwavering investment in quality education continues to provide a solid foundation for initiatives that prepare learners for emerging global realities, including climate action and environmental responsibility”, she said.

Amb. Onuoha also expressed appreciation to the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mrs Aisha Garba, and the GSCCEI Technical Team for their visionary leadership, commitment, and support toward promoting environmentally sustainable schools across Nigeria.

She urged participants to actively engage throughout the training, share experiences, and effectively cascade the knowledge acquired to schools across the State. "Together, we can build greener, safer, healthier and more resilient schools that will benefit not only our children but generations yet unborn," she stated.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mrs Aisha Garba, represented by the Academic Services Officer, Mr Madumere Victor, commended Governor Alex Otti for his remarkable strides in transforming education in Abia State and applauded the Executive Chairman of ASUBEB for the effective implementation of UBEC programmes and interventions.

She explained that the GSCCEI represents UBEC's strategic response to the growing global demand for climate-responsive education and aligns with the National Education Sector Renewal Initiative as well as Nigeria's commitment to the UNESCO Greening Education Partnership. According to her, the initiative integrates environmental sustainability, climate change education, green skills, and climate-resilient school practices into the nation's basic education system.

She disclosed that the programme emerged from an extensive consultative process involving Federal and State education institutions, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners, climate experts, academia, and civil society organisations, culminating in the development and approval of the National GSCCEI Implementation Guidelines and Handbook, which now serve as the official implementation framework across all 36 states and the FCT.

She encouraged participants to embrace the training with commitment and enthusiasm, noting that the knowledge acquired would enrich classroom instruction while contributing to a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Team Lead of the GSCCEI Technical Working Group/Lead Facilitator, Mr Unyime Robinson, commended Governor Alex Otti for his administration's remarkable educational reforms and visionary policies, particularly the introduction of electric buses, which he described as a practical demonstration of environmental sustainability and a reflection of the principles underpinning the GSCCEI initiative.

He noted that the programme was simultaneously launched in Umuahia and Awka for the South-East geopolitical zone and would subsequently be implemented across the 36 States and the FCT.
“The intervention is designed to empower educators with climate-responsive teaching methodologies, facilitate the establishment of Green Schools and Climate Change Clubs, promote environmental stewardship, and prepare a new generation of environmentally responsible citizens capable of driving sustainable national development”. He said

The facilitator further applauded UBEC and ASUBEB for championing an intervention that aligns with international best practices in sustainable education while nurturing future generations of environmentally responsible citizens.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Director of School Services, Rev. Uchechi Sampson Mba, and the Agric Desk Officer, Mrs Josephine Madumere, described the training as a timely and strategic intervention that would equip teachers with practical knowledge for integrating environmental sustainability into classroom teaching.

They emphasised that the programme's agricultural component would strengthen school gardens, enhance learners' agricultural competencies, promote environmental stewardship, and support food security initiatives in public basic schools across Abia State.

Major highlights included presentations on the GSCCEI Implementation Guidelines and the Champion the Future handbook. The training attracted key education stakeholders: Full-Time Board Member II, Deaconess Chioma Nwogwugwo; the Chairman of the State SBMC, Chief Amaechi Ikeyirimba; representatives of UBEC; 10 officials from the LGEAs; development partners; NGOs; stakeholders; and other participants.

Ekeoma Lekwauwa, anipr
Public Relations Officer
ASUBEB

EDUCATION MINISTER, ALAUSA COMMISSIONS ABIA SMART SCHOOL, HAILS OTTI’s HUMAN CAPITAL INVESTMENT

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has commissioned the Ogbo Central Smart School in Ubakala, Umuahia South LGA, one of the flagship facilities of the Governor Alex Otti-led administration’s statewide Smart School initiative, describing it as a transformative investment in human capital that will position Abia as a leader in technology-driven education and future economic growth.

The Smart School Project executed by the administration of Governor Otti, across the state’s 17 local government areas features digitally enabled classrooms equipped with interactive learning technologies, artificial intelligence-supported instructional tools, tablets for pupils, specially trained teachers, modern security systems, sick bays and eco-friendly learning environments designed to prepare children for the demands of the digital age.

Speaking while commissioning the project on Tuesday, Dr. Alausa, commended the governor’s decision to establish Smart Schools across Abia State, describing it as evidence of a government committed to preparing children for leadership in Nigeria and globally.

The Minister, who pointed out that the Otti-led administration is pursuing a forward-looking vision centred on human capital development, described the governor as a leader investing in the future by prioritising quality education alongside infrastructure development.

“Governor Alex Chioma Otti is a governor who is leading Abia State today for the future, using the future at the present time.

“A governor that knows the importance of building an economy not based on minerals, not based on fuel, but based on the innate gift of every child in Abia State, building human capital.

“Not just building human capital for the present, but for the future and giving every child in Abia State today the opportunity to compete locally, nationally, and globally.

“Great development is about building minds, building brains, and building human capital, and that’s what we’re witnessing in Abia State today.

“When you have a governor that is committed, that thought to build a smart school, not just one, not two, but in every single nook and cranny of Abia State, that’s a governor that cares for the people. That’s a governor that wants your kids to lead Nigeria and lead the world”, he said.

Dr. Alausa highlighted the benefits of the Smart Schools to include access to world-class digital learning resources comparable to those available internationally, early exposure to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technology among others.

He predicted that the impact of the initiative would become evident within five to ten years and expressed confidence that Abia would emerge as a leader in education adding that Abia children would compete successfully on the global stage.

In the speech titled “Tomorrow is the Reward“, Governor Otti said the Smart School initiative formed part of his administration’s strategy to transform human capital into the engine of economic growth.

The Governor who noted that the global economy had shifted from dependence on natural resources to knowledge, innovation and technology, stressed that governments must invest in education to remain competitive.

Governor Otti disclosed that the Ogbor Central Smart School was the first of three flagship schools to be commissioned across the state’s senatorial districts, adding that an additional 17 Smart Schools; one in each local government area, would also be inaugurated.

While revealing that each Smart School would accommodate about 300 pupils, with every Pupil to receive a tablet to support classroom instruction, the governor said that facilities have been equipped with interactive digital learning tools, predictive security systems, sick bays and specially trained teachers to provide pupils with a conducive learning environment.

He said the goal was to produce innovators, entrepreneurs and future leaders rather than graduates seeking jobs, stressing that every child in Abia should have equal opportunities to compete globally.

Governor Otti noted that his administration consistently allocates 20 per cent of the state’s annual budget to education, alongside recruiting and retraining thousands of teachers, constructing new school infrastructure and implementing free and compulsory basic education.

The governor who declared a zero-tolerance policy against extortion in schools, warned against vandalism of public school facilities and urged parents and community leaders to support the initiative by promoting discipline and good values among children.

“No form of extortion, whether of pupils or their parents, shall be allowed in any of our schools, especially the smart schools. Anyone who runs foul of our zero-extortion and zero-corruption policy will face tough disciplinary actions”, he said.

Governor Otti expressed optimism that the minister’s visit would deepen collaboration between the Federal Government and Abia State in teacher capacity development, infrastructure expansion and other educational reforms aimed at improving learning outcomes.

Earlier in his address, the e Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, described the commissioning of the smart school as the fulfilment of the Otti administration’s vision to place education at the centre of sustainable development.

He said the initiative was designed to guarantee every child, irrespective of background or location, access to world-class education, adding that the schools would prepare pupils for a future driven by knowledge, innovation and technology.

Also, the Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Mrs. Lydia Onuoha, explained that the Smart School Initiative evolved from a pilot smart school developed pro bono by Blue Giraffe Development Ltd in Ohafia in 2024, which became the template for the state’s rollout of Smart Schools across the State.

According to her, the Ogbor Central Smart School features 13 digitally equipped classrooms, an ICT centre, a modern library, an Early Childhood Care Development Centre, artificial intelligence-enabled learning systems, virtual and augmented reality facilities, renewable energy infrastructure and a dedicated girls’ room.

She added that the state had already enrolled about 375 pupils at the facility and would deploy the Federal Government’s newly launched digital learning resources to maximise learning outcomes.

The President-General of the Ubakala Clan Development Union, Elder Godwin Mbonu, expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for extending the Smart School initiative to the community, noting that the project is a priceless gift that would provide knowledge, dignity and opportunity for future generations.

PRESS RELEASE

CENTRE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION AND JUSTICE ADVOCACY CONFERS PRESTIGIOUS HUMANITARIAN AMBASSADOR HONOUR ON ASUBEB EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, LADY LYDIA EZIHE ONUOHA

The Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Lady Lydia Ezihe Onuoha, has been conferred with the prestigious title of Humanitarian Ambassador by the Centre for Human Rights Protection and Justice Advocacy HRPJA in recognition of her outstanding commitment to humanitarian service, educational transformation, advocacy for vulnerable groups, and selfless service to humanity.

The investiture ceremony took place at the Executive Chairman's Office, E-Library Complex, Umuahia, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Centre for Human Rights Protection and Justice Advocacy.

Presenting the award, the organisation's National President, Prof. C. Okechukwu, described Lady Onuoha as a distinguished woman whose life exemplifies compassion, integrity, purposeful leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of humanity.

According to him, the Humanitarian Ambassador title is one of the organisation's highest honours and is reserved exclusively for individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to humanitarian causes and possess the capacity, character, and willingness to make a positive impact on society.

Prof. Okechukwu noted that the award transcends status, office, or social influence, stressing that it is bestowed only upon individuals whose lives inspire hope and whose actions continually improve the well-being of others.

He explained that by accepting the honour, Lady Lydia Onuoha had also embraced the noble responsibility of serving as a voice for the voiceless, an advocate for justice, and a beacon of hope for vulnerable and underserved members of society.

He observed that many Nigerians, including widows, orphans, vulnerable children, elderly citizens, indigent patients, and inmates requiring legal and humanitarian interventions, continue to depend on compassionate leaders willing to champion their cause.

Prof. Okechukwu, therefore, encouraged the newly decorated Humanitarian Ambassador to continue expanding her humanitarian footprint by dedicating significant milestones, including her birthday celebrations, to community service, charity, and life-changing interventions for the less privileged.

He further disclosed that the Centre is prepared to partner with Lady Onuoha in organising periodic free medical outreaches across communities in Abia State and beyond. Such initiatives, he explained, would provide free medical consultations, blood pressure checks, health education, and other essential healthcare services to indigent citizens.

He emphasised that genuine humanitarian service is driven more by compassion, commitment, and sincerity than by financial resources, adding that even modest interventions can significantly transform lives.
“The greatest legacy any individual can leave behind is not the wealth accumulated, but the number of lives touched. Life truly begins to count when we dedicate ourselves to putting smiles on the faces of others," he stated.

In her acceptance remarks, the Executive Chairman, Lady Lydia Ezihe Onuoha, expressed profound appreciation to the Centre for Human Rights Protection and Justice Advocacy for finding her worthy of the prestigious recognition.

She described the honour as both humbling and motivating, noting that humanitarian service has always been an integral part of her life's mission and leadership philosophy.

Lady Onuoha reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare of vulnerable persons, protecting the rights of women and children, advocating against early child marriage, supporting disadvantaged communities, and championing inclusive educational opportunities for every child.

She acknowledged the inspiring leadership and humanitarian disposition of the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, whom she described as a compassionate leader whose numerous humanitarian interventions continue to uplift vulnerable citizens across the state.

According to her, the Governor's exemplary leadership has further strengthened her resolve to continue serving humanity with greater dedication and purpose.

Lady Onuoha assured the organisation that the recognition would further inspire her to remain steadfast in promoting compassion, social justice, educational development, and humanitarian services, while continuing to serve as a voice for the voiceless.

ASUBEB boss said the award underscored the growing synergy between government institutions and civil society organisations in advancing humanitarian services, promoting social justice, and improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

In his goodwill message, Dr Kelly Ihetu, National Coordinator of the Centre, described Lady Onuoha as an exceptionally compassionate leader whose passion for humanity has remained evident throughout her public service career.

He urged her to sustain her commitment to protecting the rights of vulnerable citizens, promoting human dignity, and extending humanitarian support to communities in need.

Similarly, Barr. Austin Mbaka and Barr. Chinenye Atuma, in their separate remarks, commended the Executive Chairman for her transformational leadership in the education sector and her remarkable humanitarian contributions.

They also applauded the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for appointing a highly competent education administrator whose integrity, professionalism, and visionary leadership continue to reposition basic education in the state.

In her vote of thanks, the Head Legal Unit, Barr. George Pleasure Ahiaoma expressed gratitude to the Centre for recognising Lady Lydia Onuoha's exceptional leadership and humanitarian contributions.

He described the Executive Chairman as a seasoned administrator, an accomplished educationist, and an outstanding humanitarian whose dedication to public service continues to inspire hope and positive societal change.

The ceremony featured the formal presentation of the Humanitarian Ambassador insignia and award plaque, as well as the official presentation of the Centre's Annual Medical Outreach and Community Service Initiative Proposal for future collaboration.

Dignitaries at the event included Barr. Austin Mbaka, Esq. Lucy Chambers; Barr. Michael Chukwuemeja, Barr. Uche Ihediwa Sam; Ambassador Mrs Josephine Amadi; Ambassador Victoria Kasimu, Rivers State Coordinator, HRPJA; Dr Kelly Ihetu, National Coordinator; Mrs Gold Dyboh, Advocate, Abia State Chapter; members of the management team of ASUBEB; and other distinguished guests.

Ekeoma Lekwauwa, anipr
Public Relations Officer ASUBEB

PRESS RELEASE

ASUBEB EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN PARTICIPATES IN FME–UBEC NATIONAL ROUNDTABLE ON DIGITAL RESOURCES, HIGHLIGHTS ABIA'S DIGITAL EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION.

The Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Lady Ezihe Lydia Onuoha, has reaffirmed the Abia State Government's commitment to digital transformation in basic education following her participation in the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) National Roundtable Convening Meeting on Digital Resources and Innovation.

Lady Onuoha attended the high-level meeting in her capacity as a Member of the National EdTech Committee on Achieving Learning Outcomes, established by the Federal Ministry of Education to promote the integration of technology and innovation into Nigeria's education system.

The Roundtable, held at the UBEC Headquarters in Abuja, brought together policymakers, education administrators, development partners, and technology experts to deliberate on strategies for leveraging digital resources to improve teaching, learning, and educational outcomes across the country.

Speaking during the session themed "Leveraging Digital Resources and Innovation to Improve Learning Outcomes in Nigeria," the Executive Chairman highlighted the transformational education reforms of the administration of His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, under the ABIAFIRST Education Policy, which prioritises quality education, innovation, digital literacy, and human capital development.

She disclosed that the Abia State Government, is establishing 20 Smart Schools and Digital Learning Centres (DLCs) across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State. According to her, the initiative is designed to provide technology-enabled learning environments that will enhance teaching effectiveness, strengthen digital literacy, expand access to quality educational resources, and prepare learners for the demands of the twenty-first-century global economy.

Lady Onuoha emphasised that achieving sustainable Educational Technology (EdTech) implementation requires more than providing digital infrastructure. She advocated sustained public sensitisation, teacher capacity development, effective media engagement, stakeholder collaboration, community participation, and the establishment of implementation and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the effective utilisation of digital learning resources in schools.

She further reaffirmed ASUBEB's commitment to collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Education, UBEC, and other strategic partners in domesticating and implementing national digital education initiatives that will strengthen basic education delivery across Abia State.

Describing her appointment to the National EdTech Committee as a recognition of Abia State's ongoing educational transformation, Lady Onuoha noted that the platform provides an opportunity for the State to contribute to national policies and best practices that will shape the future of digital learning in Nigeria.

The participation of the ASUBEB Executive Chairman at the national roundtable further underscores Abia State's emergence as a leading driver of educational innovation and reinforces the commitment of the Governor Alex Otti-led administration to building a resilient, technology-driven, inclusive, and globally competitive basic education system through the implementation of the Abiafirst Education Policy.

Lekwauwa Ekeoma, anipr
Public Relations Officer
ASUBEB.