JUST IN: Niger Governor Bago Bans PTA Fees in Public Schools

In a move aimed at promoting inclusive education, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced a ban on the collection of Parents Teachers Association (PTA) fees in public primary and secondary schools across the state.

Governor Bago made this declaration on Thursday during an official visit to Sarkin Pawa in Munya Local Government Area, as part of his inspection of ongoing projects in the region.

“This government has taken over the responsibility of PTA fees for all children in public schools across Niger State. Parents and guardians are no longer required to pay PTA fees for their wards,” Bago stated.

The governor further directed headmasters and principals in public schools to immediately stop collecting PTA fees, warning that any school official found violating this directive would face strict sanctions.

Governor Bago emphasized the importance of ensuring no child is excluded from education due to financial constraints or lack of resources. He urged parents to enroll their children in schools regardless of their ability to afford uniforms, adding that teachers who send children home for not wearing uniforms would be penalized.

“Allow your children to go to school, even if they don’t have uniforms. School uniforms should not be a barrier. Any teacher who sends a child home for not wearing a uniform should be reported, and such a teacher will be removed from the school,” the governor warned.

During his visit, Bago also reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects in Munya Local Government Area. Expressing satisfaction with the progress of road construction, he pledged to:

• Build a road linking Sarkin Pawa to Kaduna State.

• Construct a modern market.

• Provide potable drinking water for the local residents.

He urged contractors to expedite the completion of these projects, highlighting their importance to the people of the area.

Governor Bago’s decision follows a similar move by Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who recently banned all forms of payments in public primary and secondary schools, including PTA levies. In a New Year broadcast, Otti announced the introduction of an imprest account system for school administrators to manage operations, warning against any form of extortion or denial of educational access for children.

Both governors have reiterated their commitment to free and inclusive education, signaling a shift in prioritizing the welfare of students across their respective states.

Governor Bago’s initiative has been praised for easing the financial burden on parents and guardians while emphasizing the importance of girl-child education. His administration’s focus on education and infrastructure development reflects a broader effort to improve access to quality education and living standards across Niger State.

With these reforms, the government aims to ensure no child is left behind, setting a precedent for other states to follow.