UBEC Launches Digital Champions Network to Accelerate Education Transformation Across Nigeria
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has inaugurated a network of Digital Champions to drive technology adoption, enhance service delivery, and strengthen the administration of basic education nationwide.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Abuja on Monday, the Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission, Aisha Garba, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the commission’s journey toward becoming a digitally empowered, data-driven, and future-ready institution.
According to Garba, the rapid advancement of technology is reshaping governance, education, and public service delivery around the world, making digital transformation essential for organizations seeking to remain effective and relevant.
“Our vision is clear—to build a digitally enabled, data-driven, and future-ready commission that delivers services more efficiently, fosters stronger collaboration, and supports states and schools in providing quality basic education to every Nigerian child,” she said.
She emphasized that digital transformation goes beyond deploying computers, software, or internet connectivity. Instead, it involves changing mindsets, embracing innovation, improving processes, and adopting smarter ways of working to achieve greater impact.
Garba revealed that UBEC has already begun implementing several digital initiatives aimed at improving communication, collaboration, productivity, and knowledge sharing among staff. These include the rollout of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, the launch of the UBEC Hub Intranet, adoption of digital communication platforms, and the integration of data-driven management systems.
She further disclosed that the commission is investing in digital learning centres, smart classrooms, model smart schools, and stronger education data systems while building strategic partnerships to advance technology-driven learning across the country.
According to her, these interventions are designed to improve learning outcomes and equip Nigerian students with the digital competencies needed to thrive in the 21st-century economy.
Garba noted that the newly appointed Digital Champions will serve as agents of change within the commission, helping colleagues adapt to emerging technologies, encouraging innovation, and promoting the adoption of digital solutions.
“Your responsibility extends beyond using technology. You are expected to be ambassadors of innovation, advocates of change, and catalysts for continuous improvement,” she told the champions.
She also urged all staff members to recognize that digital transformation is a shared responsibility and not the sole duty of a specific department or the Digital Champions network.
Speaking at the event, Yau Garba, Director of Data, Digital Platforms and Analytics (DDPA), said the initiative was established to ensure the successful implementation of UBEC’s digital transformation agenda.
He noted that digitalization has become indispensable in modern governance, highlighting how technology has revolutionized sectors such as banking, finance, healthcare, and education worldwide.
While acknowledging the enormous benefits of digital transformation, he identified resistance to change as one of the key challenges organizations face, stressing the importance of continuous engagement, training, and capacity building.
“Everyone in the commission is a digital champion, but we need dedicated representatives who can help lead and sustain this transformation. These individuals will serve as change agents to ensure we achieve our digital goals,” he said.
The director added that UBEC has already introduced various digital tools—including email systems, collaboration platforms, document management solutions, and Microsoft Teams—to streamline workflows, improve communication, and reduce administrative bottlenecks.
He encouraged staff members to fully utilize the digital resources provided by management and embrace innovation to boost productivity and service delivery.
Yau Garba also expressed appreciation to the Executive Secretary, management team, and directors for their support in advancing the commission’s digital transformation agenda.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the Executive Secretary in recognition of her leadership and commitment to driving digital innovation within the commission.
The ceremony also featured the unveiling of UBEC’s Digital Transformation and Change Management Roadmap, a strategic framework designed to enhance service delivery and support quality basic education across Nigeria.
The event attracted management staff, directors, state and zonal officials, as well as selected Digital Champions from various departments, units, zonal offices, and State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs).
