The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has announced the expansion of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) framework to enhance the early childhood education component.

Dr. Alausa, represented by the Director of Basic Education, Mrs. Carisa Eyo, made this known while delivering a keynote address at a stakeholders' meeting held on Friday in Bauchi. He noted that the Ministry is providing technical support, building capacity, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms to improve the program's delivery.

He also stated that the Ministry is collaborating with development agencies to support state-led implementation models of the UBE program.

The Minister called on the Federal, State, and Local Governments, as well as traditional institutions, development partners, and communities, to join efforts in creating functional, inclusive, and sustainable educational spaces for all Nigerian children.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Alhaji Adamu Mohammed Duguri, emphasized that establishing community-based education centers is crucial to bringing quality early learning closer to grassroots communities, where the majority of children reside.

Represented by the Director of Schools Services, Alhaji Zuhairu Usman, Duguri said these centers will promote safe, accessible, and functional neighborhood schools within walking distance for every child. He highlighted that sustaining such centers is key to introducing children to formal education.

Also speaking, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Mohammed Lawan Rimin Zayam, reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to lead the project to success. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ali Babayo, he assured stakeholders that the Ministry would ensure inclusive participation for effective implementation.

Traditional rulers and representatives from organizations including HILWA, BASANE, FOMWAN, WOWICAN, JNI, and BASME also pledged their commitment to supporting the initiative and ensuring its success across the state.