President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed seasoned international development expert, Aisha Garba, as the new Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the presidency described Garba as a highly experienced education specialist with a career spanning over 24 years in designing and implementing transformative education programmes across Nigeria and beyond.

“With over 15 years of hands-on experience at the World Bank, Garba has consistently led end-to-end design and management of education programmes and reforms, from conceptualisation to completion and impact assessment,” Onanuga stated.

Garba, who graduated from Petra American University in Jordan with a combined degree in English and Computer Studies in 2000, furthered her academic pursuit by earning a Master’s in International Development from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, in 2007.

President Tinubu expressed confidence that Garba’s appointment would drive his administration’s vision of delivering quality basic education and equipping Nigerian children with the skills to compete globally.

“With her extensive experience and a proven track record in education and human development, the President expects Aisha Garba to lead UBEC in delivering sustainable solutions that will enhance access to quality education for Nigerian children,” Onanuga added.

The presidency also highlighted Garba’s ability to conceptualise, implement, and assess impactful education programmes as a significant asset for UBEC. Her tenure is anticipated to revitalise Nigeria’s basic education system and address critical challenges in access and quality.

“With Aisha Garba at the helm of UBEC, the government is confident that Nigeria will witness a significant transformation in the basic education sector, ensuring a brighter future for our children.”