In a statement issued by its Chairman, Professor Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, the Forum dismissed the allegations against Hajia Garba as completely unfounded.
The Forum of State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Chairmen has officially expressed its strong and unwavering support for the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Hajia Aisha Garba Mohammed.
In a detailed statement signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Professor Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, the group firmly rejected recent allegations leveled against Hajia Garba, describing them as entirely baseless, unfounded, and misleading.
According to the Forum, it has observed with serious concern and disappointment the emergence of a recent media report which contains a series of unsubstantiated and unverified accusations against the Executive Secretary. These claims, which were reportedly made during a press briefing by a self-proclaimed Education Rights Activist (ERAC), were deemed not only false and malicious, but also a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of a distinguished public official who has consistently demonstrated transparency, accountability, and commitment to educational reform.
Allegation against Hajia Aisha Garba false
The Forum emphasized that Hajia Aisha Garba enjoys the complete confidence and unanimous backing of all 36 State SUBEB Chairmen as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It highlighted that her tenure as Executive Secretary has brought about notable and impactful changes in the operation and effectiveness of UBEC. Under her capable leadership, the Commission has significantly enhanced the transparency and efficiency of fund allocation, ensured better monitoring of ongoing educational projects, and actively intervened in resolving some of the nation’s most pressing educational challenges, particularly in the area of reducing the number of out-of-school children.
Since taking office, Hajia Garba has consistently exhibited exceptional professionalism, visionary leadership, and unwavering integrity. Her efforts have not only strengthened the collaborative relationship between UBEC and various State SUBEBs, but have also led to the establishment of robust institutional frameworks and the launch of innovative, performance-driven initiatives that are already producing tangible results in states across the country.
The Forum condemned the allegations as part of a coordinated smear campaign by regressive forces who are apparently uncomfortable with Hajia Garba’s firm stance on due process, transparency, and good governance. It asserted that, contrary to these false narratives, Hajia Garba has remained fully committed to her responsibilities and has stayed true to her mandate as the head of UBEC.
Hajia Aisha Garba, a model for Principles
Her leadership, the Forum stated, serves as a model for principled, selfless, and development-focused public service, one that places the interests of Nigeria’s children and the future of the country’s education system above personal or political considerations.
The Forum also issued a public appeal to Nigerians, members of the press, and stakeholders in the development sector to disregard the misleading claims published in the controversial report. Furthermore, it urged the management and editorial team of Sahara Reporters to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by thoroughly investigating and verifying facts before publishing such sensational and potentially damaging stories.
Reaffirming their collective position, the Forum declared its solidarity and full support for Hajia Aisha Garba Mohammed. They praised her competence, honesty, and unwavering dedication to improving the quality of basic education in Nigeria, in line with the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda.
In conclusion, the Forum reiterated that Hajia Garba remains a reliable and visionary partner in the national effort to strengthen foundational education and secure a brighter future for Nigerian children.
