CSOs Applaud Matawalle’s Impact on Zamfara’s Education Sector
A coalition of 14 civil society organizations (CSOs) in Zamfara State has publicly commended the state’s current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle , for his transformative impact on the education sector during his time as governor between 2019 and 2023 .
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday and led by Kamal Ibrahim Gusau , the group described Matawalle’s interventions as a “monumental transformation” that brought hope to thousands of students and families.
“Matawalle revived a sector that had long been in decline,” the CSO leaders said.
Education Funding Boosts Infrastructure Development
One major highlight of Matawalle’s administration was the timely release of counterpart funds to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) . This unlocked a ₦5.5 billion matching grant , which funded critical infrastructure upgrades across the state.
Thanks to this funding, the state built:
- 900 new classrooms
- 375 renovated ones
- 20,830 dual and triple-seater desks for pupils
- Over 960 tables and chairs for teachers
These efforts helped restore basic learning environments that had deteriorated over years of neglect.
Digital Learning and School Safety Also Improved
The coalition also praised Matawalle’s push for digital literacy, noting that he oversaw the construction of eight standard ICT centres —a move they called “visionary” given the global shift toward technology-driven education.
Security and hygiene received attention too:
- 14 schools were fenced for safety
- 134 toilets and 19 VIP latrines were built
- These changes significantly improved school conditions for children
“These steps show leadership that puts kids first,” the CSOs stated.
Teacher Welfare and Institutional Support Get Recognition
Matawalle’s administration promoted 6,500 teachers and paid their 2019 leave grants , a rare move that boosted morale among educators.
The CSOs described this as “unprecedented in recent history.”
He also settled ₦70 million in debts owed to Al-Hikma University and Crescent University , enabling hundreds of Zamfara students to continue their studies without interruption.
Other wins included:
- Paying law school fees for indigenes admitted in the 2019/2020 academic session
- Financial support to Abdu Gusau Polytechnic and College of Education Maru , helping them secure accreditation for long-overdue programs
Calls Grow for Matawalle’s Return in 2027
The CSO coalition made a clear appeal: Bello Matawalle should return as Zamfara State governor in 2027 .
They argued that only Matawalle has the political will and administrative experience needed to continue transforming the education system.
“Only Matawalle can complete the educational renaissance he began,” they declared.
The group praised his foresight and passion for human capital development, urging all stakeholders to rally behind his potential return.
Call to Action: Share Your Thoughts!
Do you agree with Zamfara’s CSOs? Should Bello Matawalle return in 2027 to continue reforming the education sector?
💬 Leave a comment below and join the conversation on governance, education, and political comebacks in Nigeria.
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