The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has announced its intention to construct five smart boarding schools in Niger State, as part of its $110 million Smart Education Transformation Project. This initiative was disclosed following a meeting between IsDB representatives and Governor Mohammed Bago at the Government House in Minna.
Bologi Ibrahim, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, outlined that the SmartEdu project, which also extends to Yobe and Jigawa states, aims to enhance digital learning infrastructure and improve school facilities, while also addressing the issue of out-of-school children.
Imtiaz Alam, the operations team leader from IsDB, noted that the delegation visited to consult with state officials and discuss the preparations necessary for project implementation. The construction of the schools is expected to commence after the preliminary preparations and approval processes, anticipated to begin in December 2026.
According to Mr. Alam, the project will feature modern boarding facilities equipped with advanced digital learning resources. In addition, he mentioned initiatives such as the Minna-Bida road improvement, a bilingual education program, and a 100-megawatt solar energy project, all supported by the bank in Niger State.
The state’s Commissioner for Basic Education, Hadiza Mohammed, indicated that the new schools will encompass both basic and senior secondary education levels and will include essential facilities such as digital learning equipment, dependable electricity and water supplies, as well as training programs for teachers and school administrators.
Governor Bago confirmed that the state government would take responsibility for recruiting teachers and staff once the schools are completed and handed over. Additionally, Idris Barde, head of the Federal Ministry of Finance delegation, highlighted the Minna-Bida road project as one of the most successful initiatives under implementation, reporting a completion rate of approximately 75 percent within two years.
