Niger State Commissioner Warns Against School Extortion; Promises Stringent Measures

The Niger State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has issued a stern warning to Public School Principals and Head Teachers against extorting money from students and parents. Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, the Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, declared the Ministry's commitment to taking punitive measures against those found guilty of such acts.

The Commissioner conveyed this message during an interface with all Principals and Head Teachers in Niger East Senatorial District. Despite multiple circulars advising against extortion, some school managers persisted, leading the Ministry to take a firm stance on the matter.

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Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed emphasized the alignment of these measures with the National Policy on Free Education, emphasizing that any violation of this policy would be met with sanctions. She expressed concern over the hardship imposed on parents by certain school managers, citing instances of extortion under the guise of registration.

As part of efforts to reform the education sector in line with the New Niger Agenda, the Commissioner announced the abolition of issuing first leaving certificates by schools. Instead, Basic School leaving Certificates covering ECCDE to JSS3 will be issued by the Ministry directly.

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In an effort to enhance the quality of education, an assessment examination for all Principals, Head Teachers, and other teachers is on the horizon. The Commissioner also disclosed the formation of a committee to review secondary school textbooks for uniformity.

Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed assured teachers of the governor's commitment to improving their wages and welfare in the coming year after undergoing certain reforms for professionalism.

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The State NUT Chairman, Comrade Akayago Adamu Mohammad, pledged the union's collaboration with the ministry to ensure compliance with policy directives. He highlighted challenges faced by teachers and schools, urging the government and ministry to address these issues for the betterment of the education sector.