The Federal Government has approved a ₦6 billion intervention to construct three mega schools in Gombe State, a key initiative aimed at expanding access to quality education and strengthening educational infrastructure in a region that has faced significant developmental challenges.
The announcement was made by Uba Ahmadu, Minister of Regional Development, during the commissioning of a 250-bed capacity student hostel in Kumo, headquarters of Akko Local Government Area. The facility was delivered by the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) as part of efforts to address student accommodation shortages and support educational growth.
According to the minister, the new mega schools will be strategically located across the three senatorial districts of the state — Dadin-Kowa in Gombe Central, Dukku in Gombe North, and Kaltungo in Gombe South — under the oversight of the NEDC.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ahmadu said the federal intervention is designed to make education “more attractive, accessible and competitive,” particularly in areas that have historically lacked adequate infrastructure.
He stated, “The federal government is focused on providing modern learning environments that inspire students and improve academic outcomes.” The minister outlined that each mega school will feature modern facilities, adequate classrooms and student accommodation, all intended to create an enabling environment where pupils can learn effectively and comfortably.
Mr. Ahmadu highlighted that the administration’s priority is not only the construction of buildings but also ensuring that educational infrastructure promotes positive academic performance. He said the facilities are expected to strengthen student engagement and deliver improved outcomes.
On the collaborative aspect of the project, the minister praised the partnership between the federal government, the Gombe State Government, and the NEDC, describing it as “a model for sustainable educational development and regional growth.” He underscored the importance of aligning federal and state efforts to maximize the impact of development interventions in education.
“The investments we are making in educational infrastructure,” Mr. Ahmadu added, “reflect our commitment to bridging regional gaps and empowering young Nigerians with the environments they need to thrive.”
Mega school projects in Nigeria are large-scale education complexes that typically include classrooms, libraries, ICT laboratories, administrative offices and boarding facilities. They are designed to elevate the standard of public education, increase enrollment, and provide students with access to facilities that rival those in more developed regions.
Education stakeholders and community leaders at the commissioning event lauded the initiative, noting that improved infrastructure will boost enrolment and contribute to long-term social and economic benefits for families across Gombe State.
As the Federal Government pushes forward with this and other interventions nationwide, attention will turn to implementation timelines and oversight to ensure that these projects deliver on their promise of transforming learning environments for thousands of students.
