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The Kebbi State Government says it has invested over N1.59 billion in the development of about 590 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres across public primary schools in the state over the past three years.
The Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Suleiman Khalid Jega, disclosed this during the celebration of the 2026 International Day of Play, organised by UNICEF in collaboration with SUBEB at Kaura Gwandu Model Primary School, Birnin Kebbi.
Professor Jega said the administration of Governor Nasir Idris places top priority on early childhood education, describing it as the foundation of lifelong learning and overall child development.
He explained that 15 per cent of annual intervention funds received by SUBEB are specifically channelled into strengthening ECD centres, adding that the government’s heavy investment reflects its commitment to building a strong educational base for children.
According to him, no meaningful progress can be achieved in education without solid early childhood foundations, noting that the state is determined to ensure children are properly prepared for future academic success.
He also commended development partners, especially UNICEF, for their consistent financial and technical support to child development programmes in the state.
Speaking at the event, UNICEF Focal Person, Mr. Nuhu Haruna, said the International Day of Play is globally recognised to promote children’s right to play and highlight its importance in physical, emotional, and social development.
He thanked all stakeholders for their support in ensuring the success of the celebration.
Also speaking, the SUBEB Executive Secretary, Alhaji Umar Hassan, said the Day of Play reinforces the importance of play in children’s learning process, stressing that it enhances cognitive, psychomotor, emotional, and social development.
Pupils at the event took part in various recreational and competitive activities as part of the celebration.
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