By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has reacted to a viral video circulating on various social media platforms showing some pupils sitting on the floor at Eghreka Primary School, Ewu, in Ughelli South Local Government Area, describing the clip as politically motivated but using the opportunity to set the records straight on the State Government’s robust investments in basic education infrastructure.
In a statement issued in Asaba, the Board 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.
“Ordinarily, the Board would not have responded because it is more of political, but to keep the records straight, it has become necessary to brief the press on the true situation of things,” the statement read.
SUBEB disclosed 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 the Board, have reduced congestion in schools, created safer and more conducive learning environments, and opened opportunities for enrolment 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 Board 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.
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.
In response, the Governor of Delta State 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.
Meanwhile, as part of its activities for the season, the State Government in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) will kick off the Basic Schools Sports Programme on October 9, 2025, across the 25 Local Government Areas of the state.
The grand finale of the sporting event will hold on October 22, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.