The Oyo State Government has expressed readiness to partner with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Think Equal Organisation, USA, on the implementation of a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) initiative aimed at strengthening foundational education in the State.

The Executive Chairman of Universal Basic Education Board (Oyo SUBEB), Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, stated this on Thursday, September 3, 2026, while receiving representatives of Think Equal Organisation and officials of UBEC during a sensitisation and engagement visit to the Board’s headquarters in Ibadan.

The initiative, tagged “Think Equal Pre-Primary and Primary Literacy Programme: A Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Initiative,” is designed to complement conventional literacy education with skills that promote empathy, emotional intelligence, self-regulation and positive social interaction among children.

He highlighted several interventions by Oyo SUBEB in the area of pre-primary education, including the training of 320 Early Childhood Care, Development and Education (ECCDE) teachers across the 33 Local Government Universal Basic Education Authorities (LGUBEAs) in the State.

Adeniran attributed the progress recorded in the state’s education sector to the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, noting that the administration had sustained free and qualitative basic education, invested heavily in school infrastructure and learner-friendly facilities, prioritised teachers’ welfare and continuous professional development, and ensured prudent deployment of UBEC/SUBEB intervention funds.

The chairman assured the visiting officials that Oyo SUBEB would critically review the implementation modalities of the initiative, including teacher professional development, classroom resources, as well as monitoring and evaluation frameworks, to ensure effective integration with the State’s existing school system and curriculum.

Adeniran thanked Think Equal Organisation and UBEC for selecting Oyo State as a pilot State for the initiative, describing the development as a recognition of the State’s leadership in education.

“Indeed, we are Pacesetters and we do not take this confidence for granted,” he said, while expressing optimism that the engagement would produce a productive and impactful outcome.

Speaking earlier, the Zonal Director, Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Mrs. Beatrice Okei said the initiative comes at a time when UBEC in collaboration with State Universal Basic Education Boards have deliberately created enabling environment for the education sector to thrive, through sustained investment in basic education, teacher development, infrastructure and the welfare of teachers.

Also speaking, the Senior Manager, Africa/Middle East and Asia, Think Equal Initiative, Mr. Anas Tahhan explained that the training focused on the revised Learning Through Play pedagogy, aimed at enhancing the holistic development of pre-primary school children while equipping teachers with innovative, inclusive and child-centred teaching strategies.

He expressed confidence that the values promoted by Think Equal would complement existing learning processes and contribute to raising “well-rounded, resilient and responsible future leaders.”

The event had in attendance the Executive Secretary, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Kemi Adeosun, and Directors of the Board.

E-signed:

Media Team,

For Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,

Executive Chairman,

OYOSUBEB.

The Oyo State Government has expressed readiness to partner with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Think Equal Organisation, USA, on the implementation of a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) initiative aimed at strengthening foundational education in the state.

The Executive Chairman of Universal Basic Education Board (Oyo SUBEB), Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, stated this on Thursday, September 3, 2026, while receiving representatives of Think Equal Organisation and officials of UBEC during a sensitisation and engagement visit to the Board’s headquarters in Ibadan.

The initiative, tagged “Think Equal Pre-Primary and Primary Literacy Programme: A Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Initiative,” is designed to complement conventional literacy education with skills that promote empathy, emotional intelligence, self-regulation and positive social interaction among children.

He highlighted several interventions by Oyo SUBEB in the area of pre-primary education, including the training of 320 Early Childhood Care, Development and Education (ECCDE) teachers across the 33 Local Government Universal Basic Education Authorities (LGUBEAs) in the state.

Adeniran attributed the progress recorded in the state’s education sector to the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, noting that the administration had sustained free and qualitative basic education, invested heavily in school infrastructure and learner-friendly facilities, prioritised teachers’ welfare and continuous professional development, and ensured prudent deployment of UBEC/SUBEB intervention funds.

The chairman assured the visiting officials that Oyo SUBEB would critically review the implementation modalities of the initiative, including teacher professional development, classroom resources, as well as monitoring and evaluation frameworks, to ensure effective integration with the state’s existing school system and curriculum.

Adeniran thanked Think Equal Organisation and UBEC for selecting Oyo State as a pilot state for the initiative, describing the development as a recognition of the state’s leadership in education.

“Indeed, we are Pacesetters and we do not take this confidence for granted,” he said, while expressing optimism that the engagement would produce a productive and impactful outcome.

Speaking earlier, the Zonal Director, Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Mrs. Beatrice Okei said the initiative comes at a time when UBEC in collaboration with State Universal Basic Education Boards have deliberately created enabling environment for the education sector to thrive, through sustained investment in basic education, teacher development, infrastructure and the welfare of teachers.

Also speaking, the Senior Manager, Africa/Middle East and Asia, Think Equal Initiative, Mr. Anas Tahhan explained that the training focused on the revised Learning Through Play pedagogy, aimed at enhancing the holistic development of pre-primary school children while equipping teachers with innovative, inclusive and child-centred teaching strategies.

He expressed confidence that the values promoted by Think Equal would complement existing learning processes and contribute to raising “well-rounded, resilient and responsible future leaders.”

The event had in attendance the Executive Secretary, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Kemi Adeosun, and Directors of the Board.

E-signed:

Media Team,
For Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,
Executive Chairman,
OYOSUBEB.

The Oyo State Government has re-ordered the reopening of schools in Oriire, Oyo East, Surulere, and Olorunsogo local government areas, on Monday, following the deployment of additional security operatives to the affected zones.

Parents and guardians are strongly urged to remain calm, as security agencies have assured the government of sustained surveillance and protection across all identified communities.

Speaking on behalf of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), the Executive Chairman, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, said the latest decision follows a comprehensive security review carried out after the unfortunate incident in Ahoro-Esinele community.

Dr. Adeniran noted that the safety of pupils and teachers remains a top priority of the state government, adding that the coordinated efforts of security operatives-working under the directives of the Commissioner of Police-have significantly strengthened safety measures in schools across the axis.

He emphasised that learning activities can now resume without fear, as the government continues to monitor the situation closely in partnership with local authorities and community stakeholders.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting every child within the school system, Dr. Adeniran appealed to parents not to panic or spread unverified information, assuring that the state will continue to provide timely updates as necessary.

Signed:

Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,
Executive Chairman,
Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board.

The Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, expresses profound sorrow and deep concern over the unfortunate attack on LA School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele, Oriire LGUBEA, which resulted in the killing of a teacher and the kidnapping of some pupils.

This is a dark and painful moment for our education family in Oyo State, and our hearts are with the affected parents, teachers, and the entire community.

As we speak, the accurate number of pupils kidnapped is yet to be ascertained, as security agencies continue to comb the affected areas and establish full details of the incident.

We understand the fear and anxiety this situation has caused, and we want to assure our parents and stakeholders that the safety of our children remains our utmost priority.

I, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, Executive Chairman of OYOSUBEB, in collaboration with the Honourable Commissioner for Education, wish to reassure the public that security operatives, under the direct coordination of the Commissioner of Police, are fully on top of the situation.

A tactical response team has been deployed, and all necessary intelligence and operational measures are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the pupils and to restore peace to the community.

In the interest of safety, the Board has directed all primary schools in neighbouring communities, including Surulere, Oyo East, Oriire, and Olorunsogo, to immediately vacate their schools until further notice.

This temporary measure is to prevent any secondary incidents and to allow security agencies to thoroughly stabilise the area.

We appeal to parents, guardians, and community leaders to remain calm and prayerful. We understand your pain.

We understand your fears. But we want to reassure you, your children will not be abandoned, and this government will not rest until every child is safely returned.

The Board is in constant communication with security agencies, and updates will be shared as new information emerges.

At this trying time, let us stand together as one united community. We mourn with the families of the teacher whose life was tragically cut short.

His service, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

We call for cooperation, vigilance, and the avoidance of unverified information that may cause further panic.

OYOSUBEB remains committed to protecting the lives of every child in our care.

E-Signed:

Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,

Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB)

The distribution of instructional materials to public basic schools in Oyo State received a major boost on Friday, February 27, 2026, the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB) in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) officially flagged off the 2024 FGN-UBEC/SUBEB Intervention Programme in Ibadan.

The ceremony, held at OYOSUBEB car park, Agodi, Ibadan, marked the commencement of the large-scale supply of core textbooks, learning aids and other institutional materials to public primary and junior secondary schools across the State.

Speaking at the event, the OYOSUBEB Chairman, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said the 2024 intervention in Oyo State covers the distribution of thousands of core subject textbooks and learning materials, including 19,289 copies each of Primary Mathematics Books 1, 2 and 3; 15,515 copies of Primary English Books 1–3; and 15,111 copies each of Nursery English Books 1, 2 and 3.

Also distributed were 6,673 copies each of Nursery Mathematics Books 1, 2 and 3; 2,500 copies each of Science and Technology Books 1–3; 40,000 six-year Continuous Assessment Cards (Produced by Oyo SUBEB), 6,675 school bags; 6,675 pairs of sandals; 6,675 exercise books; 6,675 pencils; and 6,000 pairs of BESDA sandals.

He stressed that the materials are institutional resources designed to enhance instructional quality and improve learning outcomes, urging head teachers, principals and education managers to ensure strict accountability and proper utilisation.

“These materials are not for storage but for active classroom use. Their impact will be measured by improved academic performance and better learning outcomes,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Aisha Garba, said the distribution goes beyond the supply of materials, describing it as a reinforcement of hope and a renewed commitment to quality, inclusive and equitable basic education for every Nigerian child.

Represented by the Zonal Director, UBEC, Mrs. Beatrice Okei, she noted that the intervention aligns with the Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises education as a foundation for national development through strong literacy, numeracy, values and skills acquisition at the basic level.

According to her, UBEC’s statutory mandate includes coordinating the implementation of the Universal Basic Education programme nationwide, disbursing intervention funds to states and the FCT, setting and monitoring minimum standards, and promoting access, equity, quality, transparency and accountability.

To further reduce the number of out-of-school children nationwide, she disclosed that UBEC is distributing 15 million school bags, sandals and writing materials across the country to ease the financial burden on vulnerable families and encourage school enrolment and retention.

Describing the initiative as collaborative governance in action, she said the Federal and State Governments were working together to deliver qualitative and inclusive basic education.

In her remarks, SUBEB Executive Board member, Dr. Olukemi Adeosun, described the distribution as a significant step toward repositioning basic education in the State, noting that access to relevant textbooks enables learners to prepare ahead of lessons and eases the burden on teachers.

Also, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Com. Raji Oladimeji commended the Oyo state Government and SUBEB leadership for sustaining improvements in infrastructure, teacher recruitment and welfare, and called on teachers and learners to make judicious use of the materials.

The event underscored renewed collaboration between UBEC and Oyo State in strengthening institutional capacity, improving classroom delivery and ensuring that every child in public basic schools has access to the tools needed for academic success.

E-signed:

MEDIA TEAM,

OYOSUBEB.

The Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, has congratulated Muslims across the State on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and the celebration of the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr festival.

In a goodwill message issued on Thursday, Adeniran described Eid-el-Fitr as a moment of deep reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the values of discipline, compassion, sacrifice, and unity demonstrated throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

He commended the Muslim community for their steadfastness and devotion during the fast, noting that their spiritual exercise has contributed to the moral strengthening of society.

Adeniran urged all Muslims to continue embodying the virtues learnt during Ramadan and channel them towards building a more peaceful, tolerant, and progressive Oyo State.

He emphasized that the spirit of Eid offers an opportunity to reinforce communal harmony and strengthen social cohesion.

The OYOSUBEB Chairman also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ensuring quality basic education across the state, stressing that the development of children remains a collective responsibility that thrives on peace and unity.

He called on parents and guardians to use the festive season to guide their children towards positive values and encourage them to remain focused as schools prepare to resume for the next academic activities.

“On behalf of the Board, I extend heartfelt felicitations to our Muslim brothers and sisters. May the blessings of Eid-el-Fitr fill every home with joy, and may Oyo State continue to enjoy peace, growth, and divine favour,” Adeniran said.

He wished all Muslim faithful a joyous and hitch-free celebration.

E-signed:

Media Team,

OYOSUBEB.

Teachers in Oyo State have been urged to be steadfast in prayers for the State Wing Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Oyo State.

The Chairman, NUT, Oyo State wing, Comrade Raji Oladimeji made the call on Thursday during a Solemn Assembly held at the Union’s headquarters in Ibadan.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) holds an annual Solemn Assembly in Ibadan to commit the union’s activities, teachers’ welfare, and Oyo State into God’s hands through prayers led by Christian and Muslim clerics.

Comrade Oladimeji said the programme was designed to draw the leadership of the Union and the entire members closer to God, stressing that nothing was impossible with God.

Comrade Oladimeji said: “We pray to God to lead us, and to teach us what we need to know and what we need to do. We are here today to surrender our petitions to the Lord God. We believe He will hear us and our demands will come to pass”.

The NUT Chairman revealed that a lot was being done to improve the welfare of Oyo teachers, expressing confidence that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in improving on the welfare of teachers in the State.

He applauded relevant Government agencies, such as Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Oyo State Post-Primary Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, and the Ministry of Education for prioritising the welfare of teachers.

Oladimeji equally appreciated the National President, NUT, Com. Audu Titus Amba for his relentless advocacy for improved teacher welfare, and his efforts in ensuring better working conditions across the country.

He therefore charged the teachers to be role models to their pupils and students.

Oladimeji also emphasized the need for teachers to seek the face of God in their lives to be able to discharge their duties aright.

In their separate sermons, Pastor (Mrs) Margaret ‘Dayo Akinrinde, from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Oyo Province 2, Ibadan and Comrade Alh. Haroon Lawal, a retired Permanent Secretary likened teachers to a Shephard who dedicated much of His time to caring for His flock, further describing the teachers as the “shepherds of our generation”.

Consequently, the Union also donated welfare materials to teachers in the 33 local government areas of the State.

The items which include customized clothing materials and other items were distributed to NUT leaders for onward distribution to the teachers.

While distributing the items, the Chairman, Com. Raji Oladimeji informed members that the materials were given to appreciate the efforts that teachers have been putting into the education of students.

The event, which was attended by relevant authorities, and teachers from across the State, featured Quran and Bible readings, prayer session for the leadership of the NUT at all levels, for teachers across the Country, for Union staff and for the entire workforce of Nigeria, amongst other prayer points.

E-signed:

Media Team,

OYOSUBEB.

The Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), and Governorship aspirant, under the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, has formally declared his intention to contest for the office of Governor of Oyo State, promising to consolidate the achievements of the current administration and advance sustainable development across the State.

In a declaration issued on Monday, Dr. Adeniran said his decision followed extensive consultations, deep reflection, and prayers, emphasizing that his aspiration is driven by a desire to serve the people and build on the progress recorded under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

He added that this is a follow-up to his initial declaration on a State radio station, a couple of months ago, where he declared his ambition.

According to him, his years of service in different capacities within government have equipped him with the experience and understanding required to lead the State effectively.

“I am offering myself to serve as Governor of Oyo State, not out of ambition but out of conviction; not for power, but for purpose; not to be celebrated, but to empower,” Adeniran said.

The OYOSUBEB Chairman highlighted his extensive public service experience, which includes serving as a Local Government Chairman, Commissioner, and board member at both State and Federal levels.

He noted that his engagement across communities in Oyo State has given him a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing different regions of the State.

Dr. Adeniran also paid tribute to Governor Seyi Makinde, describing him as a visionary leader whose administration has significantly transformed Oyo State.

He pledged to sustain and strengthen the achievements of the current Government if given the opportunity to lead.

“I am stepping forward to consolidate the good works of Governor Seyi Makinde, my leader and principal. Continuity is the foundation of sustainable progress, and Oyo State deserves nothing less,” he said.

Adeniran stressed that the legacy of the current administration, popularly known as the Omituntun agenda, must be preserved and expanded to ensure that the gains recorded in governance, infrastructure, and social development are not lost.

“The people of Oyo State do not want to lose the benefits of this administration. The legacy of Omituntun bequeathed to our State must not and shall not die,” he added.

Outlining his vision for the State, Adeniran said his administration would prioritize quality education, youth empowerment, security, and infrastructure development while promoting innovation and inclusive governance.

“My vision is simple: a State where every child has access to quality education, where our youths do not have to leave home to find opportunity, and where security is guaranteed for every citizen,” he said.

He emphasized that his ambition is rooted in the collective aspirations of the people of Oyo State, including farmers, traders, teachers, artisans, healthcare workers, civil servants, and students across the State.

Dr. Adeniran also emphasized the critical role of the civil service in driving effective governance, noting that a motivated and professional workforce remains the backbone of Government operations.

He pledged to strengthen the capacity of the Oyo State civil service through continuous training, improved welfare, and a system that rewards merit and innovation.

Adeniran further assured that his administration would create more employment opportunities for the teeming youth population by supporting entrepreneurship, attracting investments, and expanding sectors such as education, agriculture, technology, and small-scale industries.

According to him, Government must not only provide jobs but also create an enabling environment where businesses can grow and citizens can thrive productively.

Dr. Adeniran therefore called on the people of the State to support his aspiration, expressing optimism that together they can build a future that will make coming generations proud.

“I ask for your support, your prayers, and your trust. Together, we will continue and elevate the legacy of excellence already being built in Oyo State,” he said.

E-Signed:

Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,

Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board & PDP Governorship aspirant,

Oyo State.

An Islamic Cleric, Sheikh Saanu Sheu has urged leaders at all levels of Government to uphold integrity, and a sense of trust in the discharge of their responsibilities.

This call was made on Saturday, in Ibadan during the 5th Annual Ramadan Lecture organized by Asa Youth Forum where participants reflected on the theme “Who is a good leader.”

In his keynote lecture, Sheikh Sheu emphasised the spiritual lessons of Ramadan, particularly the virtues of discipline, sincerity, and accountability.

He issued calls for true, selfless leadership among politicians, urging a shift away from “do-or-die” politics, voter inducement, and the “money-bag” politics that have previously characterized the electoral landscape.

According to him, the theme of the lecture was both spiritually meaningful and instructive, as it emphasises the moral foundations of good leadership.

“Good leadership is a sacred responsibility, that is guided by trust in God and from the people,” he said.

He continued, “Ramadan is a season of reflection, discipline, sacrifice, compassion, and accountability. It teaches us that authority is not ownership; it is stewardship.”

His message emphasized that candidates in the forthcoming 2027 elections, must prioritize the welfare of the citizens and demonstrate integrity in their quest for power.

The Cleric applauded the Chief host of the event and Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran for his efforts in strengthening the basic education sub-sector and improving learning outcomes in the State.

This acknowledgment is part of a series of recognitions for Dr. Adeniran’s leadership in transforming basic education in Oyo State, including previous commendations from community members and key stakeholders for improvements in school infrastructure and teacher performance.

Sheikh Sheu therefore offered prayers of divine guidance for Dr. Nureni Adeniran’s political aspiration in 2027.

“We call on Allah to bless the desires of your heart, and guide you aright as we approach 2027,” he said.

The event drew Muslims from different walks of life, including politicians, public officials, scholars, and community leaders.

E- signed:

Media Team,

OYOSUBEB.

When Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran walked into Ansar-ud-deen Primary School, Oke-Fóko, Ibadan, it was more than an official visit. It was a return to roots, a powerful reminder that destiny is not determined by where a child starts, but by how far the child dares to dream.

Now the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYO­SUBEB), and a former Local Government Chairman as well as Commissioner for Education in Oyo State, Dr. Adeniran stood once again in the school where his own journey began.

The occasion was the Catch Them Young programme, aimed at inspiring pupils in public primary schools.

But for him, the message was personal, emotional, and deeply symbolic.

Oke-Fóko: true to the weight the name carries, is one of the ‘ghettos’ in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area. It is the kind of place many people casually dismiss. A place where children are often written off before life even gives them a chance. To some, children from areas like this are not expected to “amount to much.”

Dr. Adeniran’s presence alone challenged that mindset.

“If some of us passed through this same school and were able to navigate life to where we are today,” he told the pupils, “then these children can become even greater than we are.”

He reminded them that the type of school they attend, or the area they come from, is never a limitation. Lawyers, doctors, architects, engineers, commissioners, Governors, senators, even presidents, he said, can and will emerge from public primary schools like Ansar-ud-deen.

As he spoke, the pupils listened not just to words, but to a living testimony.

Dr. Adeniran paid glowing tribute to his teachers, recalling their names with pride and stressing that teachers are as important as parents in shaping a child’s future. One memory stood out: a letter written by his Primary One teacher to his father, urging him to mentor and guide the young boy closely. Adeniran said his father took that advice seriously, and today, Dr. Adeniran says the joy of achievement is sweeter knowing his father is alive to witness it.

His own journey, he admitted, was not smooth. He struggled with science subjects early on, yet held firmly to his dream of becoming a doctor.

Encouraged by someone who told him “you can still be a doctor if you read,” he embraced discipline, focus, and hard work. From his first degree, he moved straight into a Master’s programme and then a PhD, proof that determination can rewrite any narrative.

Beyond inspiration, the visit also reflected responsibility. As OYOSUBEB Chairman, Dr. Adeniran said his personal history keeps him motivated to improve public primary schools across the State. When he assumed office years ago, many schools were in deplorable condition, no fences, dilapidated classrooms, overstretched facilities.

Today, the transformation at Ansar-ud-deen is evident: renovated buildings, fencing, new constructions, and a growing number of pupils returning to school due to improved learning conditions and free education.

In a practical show of care, the Chairman and management team of OYO­SUBEB distributed school sandals to some pupils of Ansar-ud-deen Primary School, Oke-Fóko, a thoughtful gesture aimed at easing the burden on parents. Dr. Adeniran announced that the initiative will be replicated across basic schools in Oyo State, ensuring that no child is denied dignity or learning because of lack.

To parents and guardians, his advice was clear: while Government provides free education, parents must also play their part, feeding, clothing, guiding their children, and keeping them away from bad influences.

“This is their future,” he said. “When these children succeed tomorrow, the parents will sit back and be proud.”

As the pupils looked on, children from a community many have written off, it was clear they were seeing more than a Government official. They were seeing possibility. They were seeing hope.

And as Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran left Ansar-ud-deen Primary School once again, his message lingered in the air: greatness has no postcode, and dreams can rise even from Oke-Fóko.

Olamide Adeniji

Oke-Fóko, Ibadan.