GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA 

PRESS RELEASE 

 We'll leverage digital tools to enhance learning outcomes - Gov. 

 Access to quality education should not be limited to the privileged few - Oando Plc Rep. 

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, today commissioned the renovated and fully equipped Family Support Program School in Katsina.

In his speech, during the commissioning ceremony, Governor Radda, stated, "Our goal is to ensure that students are not only academically proficient but also equipped with critical thinking skills, innovative mindsets, and a strong moral foundation necessary to thrive in any environment."

The Governor extended sincere appreciation to Mr. Wale Tinubu and the Oando Foundation team, noting that their corporate social responsibility initiatives "go beyond increasing enrollment numbers" and instead "focus on improving the quality of education at every level."

Reaffirming his administration's commitment to educational excellence, Governor Radda disclosed plans to "enhance curricula to make learning more practical, engaging, and aligned with global standards." 

He also stressed the importance of "integrating technology into education, leveraging digital tools to enhance learning outcomes and prepare our students for the future."

The Governor concluded by encouraging "more private sector organizations to emulate this noble initiative by investing in education, as it is the most sustainable path to development."

Earlier, in her welcome address, the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajia Zainab Musawa extolled the importance of the renovation and educational facilities.

"These renovated schools are more than just buildings—they are symbols of hope, knowledge, and a brighter future," the Commissioner stated. 

Hajia Zainab noted that the Nursery and Primary sections have been "equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), creating a stimulating and enriching learning environment that fosters holistic development."

Acknowledging the critical role of the Oando Foundation, the Commissioner expressed deep appreciation for their partnership, stating, "Your dedication to improving educational infrastructure and providing essential resources is commendable. 

The Commissioner reassured the people of Katsina State about the administration's educational priorities, "Under the leadership of Governor Radda, we are committed to sustainable reforms, including teacher training, curriculum development, and infrastructure enhancement, to build a robust and equitable education system," she explained.

The Commissioner further stressed that the ultimate goal is "to create a learning environment where children can explore their potential, develop their skills, and emerge as the leaders of tomorrow."

Speaking on behalf of  the Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, Tonia Uduimoh, said, "Today, we are not celebrating an achievement in the oil and gas sector, but something even more profound—the development of Nigeria's human capital."

Uduimoh emphasized the foundation's core belief that "access to quality education should not be limited to the privileged few. Every child, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and aspire to a better future."

Speaking on the foundation's long-standing relationship with Katsina State, Uduimoh noted, "We have been actively engaged here for over eight years." 

He revealed that the Oando Foundation has "adopted eight schools across various parts of Katsina State, carrying out extensive renovations, ICT projects, teacher training, and scholarship awards."

As a powerful illustration of the foundation's impact, Uduimoh shared the success story of Aboubakar, a scholarship recipient from Daura. "Despite his indigent background, his exceptional intelligence stood out. We awarded him a scholarship, and he successfully transitioned from primary to secondary, and then to tertiary education. Today, I am incredibly proud to say that Aboubakar is a final-year civil engineering student with a first-class degree."

Emphasizing the Foundation mission, he noted that it goes beyond infrastructure, "We are not just renovating classrooms, but transforming lives. The impact of his success extends beyond him; it uplifts his family and community."

Uduimo, on behalf of Oando Plc., expressed gratitude to the Katsina State government for providing the enabling environment to execute the project, as well as for ensuring the safety of all those involved.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, Members of the State Executive Council, Head of Oando Foundation, Ms. Tonya Okechukwu, Ministry of Education and Human Affairs Director, among other notable guests. 

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed 

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

4th March, 2025