President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Aisha Garba, an international development expert, as the new Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
The appointment was announced on Tuesday, December 17, in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Here are 10 key facts about Aisha Garba’s remarkable career and qualifications:
1. Global Experience: Aisha Garba is a Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank, where she has contributed significantly to educational development worldwide.
2. Academic Background: She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Computer Studies from Petra American University in Jordan.
3. Advanced Studies: Garba earned a Master’s degree in International Development from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom.
4. Over Two Decades of Expertise: With more than 24 years of experience, Garba has led educational initiatives in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Kenya, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
5. Proven Leadership: She has excelled in designing and implementing impactful education programs that drive reforms and promote human and economic development.
6. World Bank Legacy: Garba boasts over 15 years of professional experience at the World Bank, where she played a pivotal role in large-scale education reforms.
7. Reform Strategist: She is recognized for leading education reforms from conceptualization to execution and impact evaluation, delivering tangible results.
8. Work in Fragile Regions: Garba has built a reputation for her work in fragile and conflict-prone areas, leveraging her expertise to provide sustainable education solutions in challenging environments.
9. Millennium Development Goals: She played a significant role in Nigeria’s success in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in education, further cementing her legacy in the sector.
10. Global Consultancy: Beyond her role at the World Bank, Garba has consulted for renowned international organizations, including the Department for International Development (DFID), Regent Foundation, and the Muslim Aid Organization.
Aisha Garba’s vast experience and international exposure are expected to drive reforms and ensure quality basic education for Nigerian children.
