The Borno State Government has reopened and commissioned key basic and post-basic schools in Dar-El Jamal and Ngurno Soye, Bama Local Government Area as part of sustained efforts to restore education and stability in communities affected by insurgency.
The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, speaking at the commissioning on Friday, disclosed that the return of formal schooling to Dar-El Jamal and Ngurno Soye reflects Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s commitment to rebuilding lives through education.
“Education is central to our recovery process. By reopening and establishing these schools, we are securing the future of our children and strengthening peace in these communities. This is the boss of our governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.” Wakilbe said.
He urged community members to take ownership of the facilities, ensure proper maintenance, and encourage enrolment and retention of children, while directing the Local Government Education Authority to deploy adequate teachers.
The schools reopened and commissioned include Dar-El Jamal Primary School, which has been reopened after reconstruction, as well as two newly established institutions: Junior Day Secondary School, Dar-El Jamal, and Junior Day Secondary School, Soye.
Wakilbe noted that the reconstruction and establishment of schools since their destruction in 2013 demonstrate progress in the fight against insurgency, adding that education remains a long-term solution to preventing conflict.
“From these classrooms, we expect future leaders and professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the development of Borno State and Nigeria at large,” he said.
He also disclosed that 20 housing units have been provided in Dar-El Jamal as teachers’ quarters to enhance welfare and retention, ensuring that the schools would receive continuous supervision.
In separate goodwill messages, the Chairman of Bama Local Government Area, Hon. Modu Ali Gujja; the representative of the Shehu of Bama, Mohammed Shehu Umar; and the District Head of Nguro Soye, Kaka Mallam Kaigama, commended Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for prioritising education and rebuilding communities across Bama.
Also speaking, the AGILE State Project Coordinator, Engr Ibrahim Baba, said 35 junior secondary schools are under construction under the AGILE programme, with 30 already completed and commissioned, noting that the initiative prioritises safe, inclusive learning environments and continuous teacher development.
The visit was undertaken by a high-level delegation comprising officials of the Ministry of Education led by the Permanent Secretary, Yakaru Mustapha; the State Universal Basic Education Board led by its Chairman, Prof. Bulama Kagu; the AGILE project team led by Engr Ibrahim Baba; and members of the Bama Reconstruction Committee led by its Secretary, Engr Gujja Dalori.
