Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has inaugurated a newly constructed 48-classroom High Islamic College in Gubio Local Government Area, further advancing the state’s education reform agenda.
The college, which integrates Western education with the traditional sangaya (Qur’anic) learning system, is designed to deliver an inclusive and modern curriculum. It operates a hybrid model combining Islamic studies with conventional academic subjects and vocational training.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, Governor Zulum said the initiative aims to preserve the long-standing tradition of Islamic scholarship while equipping students with the competencies needed to succeed in a modern society.
According to him, the reformed sangaya system offers learners instruction in religious values alongside literacy, numeracy, science, technology, basic English and vocational skills, thereby improving their prospects for further education and productive engagement.
“Our objective is to modernise the system without eroding its core values. We are strengthening Islamic education while introducing contemporary subjects that prepare learners for higher education and meaningful participation in society,” the governor said.
Zulum explained that schools operating under the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) approved curriculum now provide pathways for students to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and progress to universities and other tertiary institutions.
The High Islamic College comprises 48 classrooms, administrative offices and a library, and is expected to serve hundreds of students from Gubio and surrounding communities, reducing the need for families to send their children far from home to access quality integrated education.
The governor also commissioned the Gubio II Junior Day Secondary School, built by the Borno State Government. During an inspection of the facility, the Commissioner for Education, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, said the school was designed to provide a safe, inclusive and conducive learning environment, with particular focus on expanding access to education for adolescent girls.
In addition, Governor Zulum commissioned three projects executed by the Gubio Local Government Council under its chairman, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio. The projects include the Gubio Oil Mills, the Zulum Ultramodern Clinic and the Mustapha Gubio Shopping Complex.
The ceremonies were attended by senior government officials and traditional leaders, including the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; and members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zanah and Engr. Bukar Talba. Also present were the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commissioners, special advisers and other top government functionaries.
