The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John , has called attention to the urgent need for intervention at QIC Primary School, Esit Urua, in Eket Local Government Area, urging relevant authorities to include the school in ongoing education reform projects across the state.
Comrade John made the appeal during a press briefing at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Headquarters in Uyo, where he commended the ₦5.9 billion basic education intervention approved by Governor Umo Eno.
While applauding the government’s efforts, particularly the planned recruitment of 1,000 teachers, the NUJ Chairman stressed that several schools are still grappling with infrastructural deficits that require urgent attention.
He specifically mentioned QIC Primary School, Esit Urua, describing it as one of the institutions in critical need of rehabilitation to ensure a safer and more conducive learning environment for pupils.
According to him, equitable distribution of intervention projects would help reduce the widening gap between urban and rural schools, where disparities in facilities and learning conditions remain pronounced.
Comrade Nsibiet also commended SUBEB for its ongoing reforms, noting that such efforts would yield greater impact if no school is left behind in the implementation process.
He further called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, host communities, and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to support the protection and sustainability of school infrastructure.
Reaffirming the commitment of the media, the NUJ Chairman assured that journalists will continue to advocate for accountability and fair implementation of education policies across the state.
Reacting to the concerns raised, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Rt Hon Anietie Etuk acknowledged the appeal and assured that the school will be considered in its ongoing needs assessment and intervention planning.
He emphasized that SUBEB has already commenced a statewide facility audit to identify schools requiring urgent rehabilitation under the ₦5.9 billion education intervention programme.
“The board is aware that some schools are still in poor condition, especially in rural areas. That is why we are conducting a comprehensive assessment to ensure that intervention is properly prioritized and evenly distributed,” the official stated.
He added that Governor Umo Eno’s administration remains committed to inclusive education development, stressing that no community would be left out of ongoing reforms.
The official further assured that findings from the audit would guide the next phase of project implementation, including classroom rehabilitation, provision of learning materials, and infrastructure upgrades.
