A recent report by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has revealed that a total of ₦264.12 billion in matching grants remains unspent by states as of July 21, 2025. The funds were disbursed to State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEB) but have not been utilized. This has sparked concerns about the impact on the country's basic education sector. According to the UBEC's 2025 Annual Report, all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have reported balances.
Benue recorded the largest balance at ₦19.18 billion, followed by Imo, Osun, Kwara, and Delta. The failure to utilize these funds has raised questions about the commitment of state governments to improving basic education. The funds had already crossed the hurdle of accessing federal intervention, and the delay in implementation has denied children the opportunity to learn in improved school environments.
The Nigerian Tribune Editorial Board has expressed concern about the report, noting that children's futures cannot wait for government files to move from one office to another. The Board emphasized that the delay invites an uncomfortable question: would these billions have remained untouched if they could readily be converted into private benefit? The Board called on governors, SUBEB chairmen, commissioners for education, finance officials, and project officers to provide explanations.
The Editorial Board suggested that a fraction of Benue's reported balance could make a significant impact on the state's education sector. For instance, if rehabilitating a classroom costs ₦10 million, ₦1 billion could restore 100 classrooms. The Board emphasized that the possibilities are clear: roofs that keep out the rain, secure windows, and classrooms where children can concentrate.
The delay in implementing the projects has also raised concerns about the role of state authorities, particularly governors and SUBEB officials. The Editorial Board asked whether governors would accept a roof threatening their daughter's safety while officials exchanged letters about another approval. The Board emphasized that families unable to afford private schools have no convenient escape and that their children return to the same classrooms tomorrow.
The Nigerian Tribune Editorial Board has called on state governments to provide detailed explanations for the delay in utilizing the funds. The Board emphasized that no state earns a pass because another has a larger balance. The Board also called on the Federal Government to ensure that UBEC's responsibility continues after the transfer of funds and that the commission identifies slow utilization by SUBEBs as a challenge.
The Editorial Board recommended that State Houses of Assembly should summon SUBEB officials, demand ledgers, and insist that auditors investigate discrepancies. The Board emphasized that oversight must follow the money through to completed projects, with findings made public and corrective action tracked. The Board also called on parent associations to know which schools are scheduled for renovation, who holds each contract, and when work should finish.
Key points
- Nigerian governors face scrutiny over N264.12 billion in unspent UBEC grants.
- The funds were disbursed to states but remain unused, sparking concerns about the impact on basic education.
- State governments have been called upon to provide detailed explanations for the delay in utilizing the funds.
