As part of efforts to revamp education, the Governor of Abia State, Mr. Alex Otti has launched Abia Fostering Innovation Reform School Transformation (AbiaFIRST) Education Transformation Programme in the state.
Governor Otti disclosed this on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, explaining that the initiative is beyond improving school infrastructure as it represents a complete institutional reform.
“The AbiaFIRST Education Transformation Programme is a cornerstone of our strategic governance agenda, aimed at the rapid socioeconomic development of Abia State. The programme focuses on the development of school infrastructure, training and retraining of teachers on new trends, recruitment of quality educators, curriculum upgrades to accommodate emerging knowledge, and addressing the malaise of examination malpractices by inculcating diligence and fair competition in our children, among other key issues.
“For the 2025 fiscal year, we have allocated ₦120 billion for various education projects, including rebuilding over 200 model schools, enhancing teachers’ welfare, and introducing new incentives to attract top educators. We are also doubling the number of teachers to be recruited this year to meet our ambitious goals and the rise in enrollment figures in our public schools,” he stated.
The governor expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, and his team for their dedication to the reform initiatives.
He also affirmed the support and collaboration of development partners, including UNESCO, the World Bank, and the British Council.
The politician equally commended the contributions of the Education Reform and Innovation Team (ERIT), led by Mrs. Abolaji Osimhen, acknowledging that she has been engaging with his administration since 2023.
He urged pupils and students in the state to focus on their education, stressing that competition for opportunities is now global.
“Mediocrity has no place in the world we are preparing you for. Our administration is committed to equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed for the emerging realities of the new age,” he added.
