President Bola Tinubu has appointed former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

The announcement was confirmed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the official launch of the AFD-supported ICT Development Project in 10 selected Nigerian universities. The minister described the appointment as part of ongoing efforts to reposition basic education in Nigeria through strong leadership and strategic governance.

Al-Makura, a respected politician and former senator, is expected to bring his wealth of experience in public administration and education reform to UBEC’s leadership. His appointment comes at a time when the Commission is ramping up efforts to improve access, infrastructure, and learning outcomes at the foundational level of education across the country.

The Universal Basic Education Commission is a critical agency under the Federal Ministry of Education, tasked with coordinating and implementing the national UBE programme, which guarantees free and compulsory basic education for Nigerian children.