Mariere Takes Advocacy to Isoko North and South, Faults Local Governments on Primary School Funding

The Executive Chairman of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (DELSUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, has taken his advocacy for improved basic education to Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas, expressing concern over inadequate funding of primary schools by some local government councils as required by law.

Concern Over Declining Education Standards

Speaking at the meetings, Hon. Mariere noted that the declining standard of education in Nigeria has become a serious concern to the three tiers of government—federal, state, and local. He emphasized that primary education, being the foundation of the entire education system, must be properly structured, adequately funded, and effectively supervised.
According to him, any weakness at the primary school level inevitably affects the entire education value chain, making urgent intervention necessary.

Commitment of the Oborevwori Administration

The DELSUBEB Chairman decried the perceived decline in educational values and morality among young people, but assured stakeholders that the current Delta State Government under Sheriff Oborevwori is fully committed to addressing these challenges.
He explained that the Oborevwori administration, through its MORE Agenda, is determined to reposition education in the state by strengthening basic education delivery, improving supervision, and enforcing compliance with education laws and policies.

Confidence in Public School Education

While reaffirming confidence in public schools, Hon. Mariere reminded stakeholders that many globally recognized Nigerians—including Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Wole Soyinka, and several others—are products of public school education.
He stressed that public primary schools in Delta State boast improved infrastructure and qualified teaching personnel, noting that the minimum qualification for teachers in the state’s primary schools is the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE).

Call for Stronger Regulation and Oversight

Hon. Mariere also called for stricter regulation and monitoring of public schools to curb unwholesome practices and eliminate quackery within the education system. He emphasized that strong governance frameworks are essential for maintaining standards and protecting the integrity of basic education.

Adoption of New National Curriculum

The SUBEB Chairman disclosed that a new National Curriculum has been adopted and is scheduled for implementation from September. He explained that the revised curriculum is well-tailored to current realities, incorporating modern learning needs, skills development, and improved teaching methodologies.

He further stated that the National Education Policy clearly outlines shared responsibilities among the three tiers of government, with the primary and basic education sector requiring coordinated funding, supervision, and policy implementation.

Need for Collective Responsibility

Hon. Mariere concluded by stressing that improving education outcomes in Delta State and Nigeria at large requires a collective effort involving government institutions, local government councils, school managers, teachers, parents, and communities.
The advocacy visits to Isoko North and South LGAs reaffirm DELSUBEB’s commitment to strengthening primary education, enforcing accountability, and ensuring that every child in Delta State receives a solid educational foundation.