Lagos, Oct. 13, 2025 – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming public schools through digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to build a knowledge-based economy and globally competitive learners.
Maruf Alausa, the Minister of Education, said this in Lago during the inauguration of the Digitalisation of Public Schools Initiative and the flag-off of Interactive Smart Boards distribution in Nigeria.
He said the partnership with UBEC had created an enabling environment for the nationwide distribution of over 1,000 interactive smart boards and teacher training programmes.
“Education must evolve with the world of work and innovation. Hence, we are embedding AI, EdTech, Robotics, coding, and digital literacy across school curricula,” he said.
The minister said the shift from chalkboards to smart boards symbolised a move from one-way teaching to interactive, technology-driven learning that promotes engagement and creativity.
“These smart boards allow teachers to integrate multimedia and real-time interaction into lessons, enabling learners to explore, engage, and create actively,” he said.
Alausa described the initiative as more than a technological upgrade, calling it a bold declaration of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace the future of learning.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the initiative, noting that 1,000 smart boards would be distributed to schools in Lagos to enhance digital learning.
The minister commended Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his Innovate Eko STEAM programme aimed at equipping young people with modern technological skills.
Aisha Mohammed, the UBEC Executive Secretary, said over 60,000 smart boards had been distributed nationwide alongside comprehensive digital literacy training for teachers.
She said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda for Education, which aims to transform Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-driven economy.
“UBEC has also provided assistive technologies, including talking computers for visually impaired learners, ensuring equitable access to digital learning,” she said.
Mohammed said the digital transformation journey would be sustained through continuous innovation, capacity building, and long-term investment in educational technology.
Hakeem Shittu the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, said the UBEC initiative would strengthen existing digital infrastructure and promote collaboration in tech-driven education.
“This initiative reaffirms the joint commitment of federal and state governments to bridge the digital divide and prepare learners for a future built on innovation,” he said.
