By Onomiguren Agbamu
The Chairman,Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, said the state government, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has provided massive infrastructure interventions for primary schools across the state.
Hon. Mariere stated this during a press briefing while reacting to a viral video circulated on various social media platforms where some pupils were seen seated on the floor at Eghreka Primary School, Ewu, in Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The SUBEB Chairman described the video clip as politically motivated to tarnish the image of the current administration but, however, said the state government has invested robustly in basic education infrastructure all over the state.
The board chairman also explained that while the incident reflects the reality that some schools still face furniture shortages, the state government has consistently made substantial interventions to improve the quality of learning environments across Delta.
Mariere highlighted that in the current year alone, over 16,000 dual desks were constructed and distributed to schools across the state, in addition to those provided through constituency projects by members of the Delta State House of Assembly, other MDAs, and corporate organizations.
On infrastructure, 234 new classrooms were delivered—162 under the 2024 UBE Intervention Fund and 72 by the Delta State Government (DSTG). Another 24 classrooms were still under construction as of the end of the reporting period.
These efforts, according to him have reduced congestion in schools, created safer and more conducive learning environments, and opened opportunities for enrollment expansion in both rural and urban areas.
Security and welfare facilities were also prioritized with the construction of 22 perimeter walls and gatehouses, renovation of five others, provision of 164 VIP toilets, and five solar-powered boreholes. Teachers’ welfare received a boost with the construction of 10 staff quarters, while learners benefitted from the supply of 16,834 units of furniture, maintenance of 4,000 more, and the provision of 50 double bunk beds and foams to support boarding arrangements.
The Chairman noted that a recent needs assessment confirmed that some schools still require additional furniture to meet the needs of the state’s 1,141 public primary schools. Alarmingly, about 30% of existing furniture has to be replaced annually due to misuse and destruction by community members.
He also said that the seats are often taken away during social events such as burials and football matches and not returned, exposing them to theft and damage. In some cases, furniture is deliberately vandalized, with iron frames sold to scavengers, while pupils also contribute to wear and tear.
He maintained that “The State Governor has approved the immediate provision of 1,000 seats to schools in urgent need. Furthermore, plans are underway to supply over 16,000 additional dual desks under the 2025 UBE projects, with the contracting process expected to be completed before the end of the year.”
He stated that as part of the activities of the Board this season, the state government, in collaboration with UBEC, would, on 9th October, 2025, kick off Basic Schools Sport in centres across the 25 LGAs of the state, pointing out that the grand finale would be held on 22nd October, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
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