Governor Alia Signs Landmark Education Reform Bill, Establishes Unified Quality Assurance and Examinations Board in Benue State

In a historic step toward transforming education in Benue State, Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has signed into law a bill establishing the Benue State Education Quality Assurance and Examinations Board. The new legislation merges the former Bureau for Education Quality Assurance and the Benue State Examinations Board into a single, streamlined entity designed to elevate standards, enhance efficiency, and position the state’s education system for global competitiveness.

The bill, passed by the Benue State House of Assembly and presented by Speaker Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga, was signed during a ceremony at Government House, Makurdi. Governor Alia described the move as a cornerstone of his administration’s vision for a world-class education system. “This strategic reform is part of our commitment to building a world-class education system in Benue State and ensuring that every Benue child receives a holistic, high-quality, and globally competitive education, one that prepares them to excel anywhere in the world,” he declared.

The consolidation eliminates operational overlaps, streamlines processes, and introduces uniformity in quality control and examination standards across all educational institutions in the state. By merging the two agencies, the new Board will foster greater accountability, reduce bureaucratic delays, and drive innovation in teaching and learning outcomes.

Governor Alia emphasized that the reform lays a solid foundation for excellence at all levels of the education sector. “Education remains a cornerstone of our development agenda. With this law, we are laying a solid foundation for excellence, accountability, and innovation across all levels of our educational system. A better Benue begins with a better education, and we are delivering it,” he affirmed.

To lead the newly established Board, Governor Alia appointed Dr. Terna Francis as the pioneer Executive Secretary. Dr. Francis, who previously served as Director-General of the Bureau for Education Quality Assurance, brings extensive experience in educational standards and administration. His appointment ensures continuity while injecting fresh momentum into the reform agenda.

The signing ceremony was attended by high-profile government officials, including the Benue State Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Mrs. Margaret Ijaguwa ADAMU, and her counterpart for Justice and Public Order, Prof. Yangien Ornguga. Their presence underscored the cross-sectoral importance of the reform in advancing governance, justice, and public trust through improved educational outcomes.

The creation of the unified Board is expected to yield far-reaching benefits, including standardized assessments, improved teacher training, infrastructure upgrades, and data-driven policy decisions. Education experts believe the reform will not only raise academic performance but also attract investment and partnerships in the sector.

As Benue State positions itself as a leader in educational innovation in Nigeria, Governor Alia’s administration continues to demonstrate bold leadership in turning campaign promises into tangible progress. With this law now in effect, the state is one step closer to delivering an education system that empowers its youth and secures a prosperous future for all.