The Niger State Government has launched a three-day capacity-building workshop for senior teachers and mentors, aimed at strengthening inclusive early childhood education across the state.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the programme is themed “Enhancing Teaching Excellence, Promoting Inclusive Early Childhood Education, and Fostering Sustainable School Leadership.”
Speaking at the opening session in Minna on Wednesday, Governor Umaru Bago said the initiative was designed to promote teaching excellence, advance inclusivity in early learning, and strengthen leadership within schools. Represented by his deputy, Mr. Yakubu Garba, the governor reaffirmed that teacher welfare and professional development remain a top priority for his administration.
He further disclosed that plans were underway to renovate and upgrade rundown school infrastructure across Niger State. Bago noted that the government had introduced one of the most competitive salary scales in the country and continued to prioritise teacher incentives and welfare.
He also encouraged educators to embrace professional licensing and apply lessons from the training to benefit their colleagues and learners.
Dr. Hadiza Mohammed, former Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, explained that the training forms part of the state’s broader education reform agenda. She praised the governor’s commitment to improving access to quality and inclusive education, describing it as central to sustainable development.
Mohammed identified the workshop’s three pillars as teaching excellence, inclusive early childhood education, and sustainable leadership. “Our objective is to equip teachers with modern techniques, updated knowledge, and the tools needed to inspire excellence in the classroom,” she said.
Highlighting the crucial role of educators in shaping society, she urged participants to use the opportunity to renew their passion, strengthen their commitment to inclusivity, and embrace leadership in the teaching profession.
Also speaking, Dr. Hussaini Usman, Director of the Niger State Teachers Professional Development Institute, commended the governor’s “New Niger Agenda” on education. He encouraged participants to make the most of the training and translate the knowledge gained into meaningful improvements in their schools.