Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has called on the elite and political class to lead efforts in upgrading the standard of education, stressing that it is key to fostering unity and peaceful coexistence, in line with the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
Governor Sule made the call while addressing alumni at a meeting of the Government College Keffi Old Boys Association in Nasarawa State.
Established in 1949 by the then Northern Regional Government, Government College Keffi was created to promote unity and expand access to education across Northern Nigeria.
The college’s assembly hall was packed with former students from within and outside the country, who gathered to discuss ways of restoring the school’s infrastructure and academic standards.
Governor Sule, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. John Mamman, urged the elite, especially those who benefited from education during the pre- and early post-colonial eras, to uphold the founding father’s ideals of selflessness, accountability, and patriotism.
“The task of rebuilding our education system rests heavily on those of us who benefited from it,” the Governor said. “We must champion the values that once made our institutions the pride of the nation.”
Dr. Mamman stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between the government and stakeholders to address declining education standards and drive socio-economic development.
Also speaking at the event, former Ambassador to Namibia and old student, Mr. Bagudu Hirse, recalled the emphasis that past northern leaders, including Sir Ahmadu Bello, placed on discipline, character development, and hard work.
“Our past leaders had education, discipline, and national unity at the centre of their agenda,” Hirse said. “It is time we return to those core values if we are serious about building a peaceful and united country.”
Principal of Government College Keffi, Mr. Saidu Baba, called for urgent measures to renovate the school’s aging structures and improve security across the campus.
“We need quick action to save our facilities and ensure a safe learning environment,” he appealed.
President General of the Keffi Old Boys Association, Alhaji Muhammed Lawan, emphasized the need for more opportunities for private organizations to partner with government in revitalizing education.
“The future of our society depends on the quality of education we provide today,” Lawan said.
In a goodwill message, the Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa, commended the Old Boys Association for giving back to society and urged them to continue promoting unity and service to humanity.
(Radio Nigeria)