Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State says his administration has committed a total of N112.7 billion to the education sector in 2026, in what he described as a deliberate effort to strengthen human capital development and drive long-term growth in the state.
The governor made the disclosure on Saturday at the combined eighth, ninth, and 10th convocation ceremonies of Sa’adu Zungur University in Gadau, where he reiterated that education remains a central pillar of his administration’s development agenda.
According to Mr Mohammed, the investment reflects his government’s recognition of education as a critical tool for individual empowerment and societal advancement, stressing that sustained funding in the sector is essential for the future of Bauchi State.
He noted that more than 15 per cent of the state’s annual budgets have consistently been dedicated to education, underscoring what he described as a firm and ongoing commitment to improving access and quality across all levels of learning.
Breaking down the allocation, the governor said N58.02 billion has been set aside specifically for higher education in the 2026 fiscal plan, with N40.6 billion earmarked for capital projects. These projects include the construction and rehabilitation of classrooms, hostels, laboratories, ICT facilities, and staff quarters aimed at improving the learning and working environment within tertiary institutions.
At Sa’adu Zungur University, the governor listed several ongoing and planned interventions, including the construction of 20 classrooms, student hostels across the Gadau and Yuli campuses, staff accommodation, and enhanced security infrastructure to ensure a safe academic environment.
He also highlighted additional measures introduced to support the institution, such as consistent payment of staff salaries, increased financial support, scholarship schemes for students, reduction in registration fees, and respect for institutional autonomy as part of efforts to strengthen governance in the university system.
Mr Mohammed further warned against practices that undermine academic standards, including drug abuse and sexual harassment, stressing that his administration would not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against offenders. He emphasized that universities must remain safe spaces where learning, discipline, and personal growth are protected.
Commending the university’s leadership and staff, the governor praised their commitment to academic excellence and noted that the institution continues to produce graduates who contribute meaningfully to the state’s workforce and broader development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s goal of building a self-reliant and knowledge-driven state, powered by a skilled population capable of competing on a global scale, adding that the government will continue to support Sa’adu Zungur University in its pursuit of becoming a leading centre of academic excellence.
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