The 69th National Council on Education (NCE) meeting has concluded in Akure, Ondo State, with Borno State announced as the next host for the 70th edition scheduled for 2026 in Maiduguri.
The meeting, which held from Nov. 3 to Nov. 7, had as its theme: “Quality Education Data and Professionalisation of Teaching: Tools for Enhanced National Development.”
It was chaired by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maaruf Olatunji Alausa, CON, and co-chaired by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad. The meeting was officially declared open by Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa.
The Borno State delegation was led by the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe. He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Yakaru Mustapha; Permanent Secretary, SUBEB, Dr. Hyelni Mshelia; Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Babagana Zannah; and Director, Finance and Accounts, Mr. Imam Alkali Kolo.
During the technical and plenary sessions, Borno State made several notable submissions which were widely acknowledged and adopted by the Council. The State was commended for its progress in reducing the number of Out-of-School Children (OOSC) through significant infrastructural investments, continuous teacher training, promotion of technical and vocational education, and strong alignment with national education policies.
A key highlight of the meeting was the symbolic handover of the NCE hosting torch by the Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, to Hon. Wakilbe, signifying Borno State’s readiness to host the next council meeting.
The forthcoming 70th NCE meeting in Maiduguri is expected to provide an avenue for Borno State to showcase its ongoing education reforms, innovations, and commitment to national development.
