By Our Correspondent
National News – The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has commended Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, for implementing sweeping education reforms aimed at strengthening human capital development and improving learning outcomes.
The global body praised the administration’s commitment to education investment, describing the reforms as a strong foundation for sustainable academic progress and social development.
The commendation was delivered by Jean‑Paul Ngome‑Abiaga, UNESCO Head of Office and Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, during a delegation visit to the governor in Nvosi, located in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
According to him, the reforms introduced since 2023 have produced visible improvements in infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and education sector performance.
Ngome-Abiaga particularly applauded the state government’s decision to allocate 20 percent of its annual budget to education, noting that such investment demonstrates a strong commitment to long-term educational development.
He revealed that UNESCO has partnered with Abia State on several initiatives, including training more than 1,000 teachers in health education, engaging over 700 community and religious leaders on health awareness, and involving over 300 schools in the Abia First Education Programme.
He further emphasized that UNESCO is prepared to deepen collaboration with the Abia State Government by offering technical expertise and institutional support in areas such as education policy, health education, culture, science, communication, and information development.
Also speaking during the visit, Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, highlighted the impact of the Africa Social Impact Summit, an initiative launched with the United Nations system in Nigeria to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
She disclosed that the summit has already helped unlock over $100 million in development financing through partnerships involving governments, private organisations, and development institutions.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening the education system.
He explained that the government introduced free and compulsory education after identifying school fees as a major factor contributing to out-of-school children.
The policy, he said, significantly increased student enrolment across Abia State.
In response, the government recruited thousands of teachers, launched major school reconstruction projects, introduced smart schools, standardized curricula, and enhanced security around educational facilities.
