… Commissions buses to boost monitoring
BENIN CITY: Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has flagged off the distribution of teaching and learning materials (TLMs) and commissioned buses to strengthen school monitoring across the state’s junior secondary schools, in a move aimed at revitalising the education sector.
The event, held at New Era College, Upper Mission Road, Benin City, drew enthusiastic participation from pupils, education stakeholders and government officials.
Represented by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the governor received a rousing welcome from students as he commended the collaborative efforts of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in delivering the initiative.
The distributed “back-to-school kits” comprise textbooks, notebooks, sports equipment including footballs and jerseys, as well as school bags and sandals designed to support learning and improve student welfare.
Idahosa praised the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Sonia Omonzane Ebanehita, for her commitment to advancing education in the state, noting that the initiative reflects strong synergy between federal and state education agencies.
“We are here for the official flag-off of the distribution of school materials, mini buses and sports items procured by UBEC in collaboration with SUBEB,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising education as a cornerstone of national development, noting that quality education remains critical to nurturing future leaders.
The deputy governor further acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Education and UBEC in facilitating the provision of the materials distributed across Edo State.
Highlighting reforms under the current administration, Idahosa credited Governor Okpebholo with repositioning the education sector through the payment of salary arrears, recruitment of over 5,000 teachers, revitalisation of major schools and promotion of teaching staff.
He said these efforts have begun to yield tangible results under the SHINE Agenda, pointing to the governor’s recognition as “Governor of the Year in Education” at the 2025 New Telegraph Awards.
“It is clear not only to Edo people but to Nigerians and the global community that Senator Monday Okpebholo is an education-loving governor,” he said.
In a symbolic demonstration, Idahosa test-drove one of the Hilux utility vehicles alongside the SUBEB chairman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mrs Edith Ebomonyi, and other senior officials.
A total of three utility vehicles were commissioned for SUBEB operations in Benin City, while the newly procured mini buses will be distributed across the 18 local government areas to enhance monitoring and supervision of schools.
The event was attended by local government chairmen, school principals and students, underscoring broad stakeholder support for the initiative.
