The Farid Centre, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has launched The RISE Project, a pioneering initiative aimed at advancing inclusive basic education across Niger State. The project, which stands for Resources, Inclusivity/Integration, Strategic Communications, and Empowerment, is a significant step towards ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education.
At the official flag-off ceremony, the Executive Governor of Niger State, Farmer (Dr.) Umaru Mohammed Bago, announced a landmark investment of ₦1 billion to facilitate the effective implementation of inclusive education. He commended The Farid Centre’s dedication, describing the initiative as a “new dawn” in the state’s educational landscape, particularly for marginalised communities.
The Governor stressed that inclusive education is a fundamental right and called for sustained funding and collaboration among stakeholders. He directed the immediate rollout of key initiatives, including:
Expanding inclusive basic education across all local government areas of the state.
Constructing special classrooms in four pilot schools through the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB).
Establishing a Board for Persons with Disabilities, to be overseen by the Niger State Ministry of Secondary and Basic Education.
Allocating ₦50 million to The Farid Foundation and ₦25 million to each of the four pilot schools to enhance learning infrastructure.
Approving a Scholarship and Special Education Programme at Abdulkadir Kure University to further support inclusive education.
Education as a Catalyst for Development
Haj. Dr Khadijah Abdullahi Iya, the first female gubernatorial aspirant in Niger State and a former Vice Presidential Candidate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was also in attendance. In her address, she emphasised the necessity of education for all, irrespective of ability, and called for the extension of inclusive education across all local government areas in Niger State. She further highlighted the importance of human capital development, urging policymakers to prioritise sustainable educational reforms as a key driver of the state’s progress.
Aminat Jummai Gimba, Co-Founder of The Farid Centre, described the launch as a milestone in the journey towards educational equity. “Today marks a turning point where challenges become opportunities and barriers are transformed into bridges. The RISE Project embodies our vision of ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education and a brighter future,” she stated.
The RISE Project is structured to create a sustainable and holistic framework for inclusive education, focusing on:
Providing essential learning resources to improve accessibility.
Encouraging inclusivity and integration within classrooms.
Leveraging strategic communication to drive awareness and policy change.
Empowering children with special needs, their families, and educators through targeted interventions.
Traditional Leaders and Government Officials Reaffirm Support
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alh. Yahaya Abubakar (CFR), and the Emir of Minna, Dr Umaru Bahago. Both royal leaders underscored the importance of investing in special education, calling for sustained government and community support due to its high cost and specialised requirements.
Additionally, the Honourable Commissioner for Secondary and Basic Education, Dr Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, and the Executive Chairman of NSUBEB, Mal. Muhammad Baba Ibrahim, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to revitalising education in Niger State.
The Chairperson of Bosso Local Government Area, Honourable Rakiya Ladidi Bawa Bosso, commended The Farid Centre for championing the initiative, while Dr Khadijah Abdullahi Iya lauded Governor Bago’s educational reforms, describing education as the most effective tool for poverty alleviation.
The event also featured symbolic presentations of school materials to pupils by the Governor and The Farid Centre’s Co-Founder, alongside cultural performances promoting inclusivity.
Sponsored by the MacArthur Foundation in collaboration with JONAPWD, Abuja, The RISE Project marks a bold step towards an inclusive educational system in Niger State. With this initiative, education is not just about learning—it is about transforming lives, shaping futures, and ensuring that every child has a fair chance at success.
