The Kutigi Old Students Association, class of 1984, on Sunday, urged the Niger government to take urgent action to restore public schools in the state to their former glory.

Abubakar Shaba, head boy of the set, made the call during the association’s second reunion meeting to mark its 40th graduation anniversary in Minna.

He also called on the Niger government to prioritise school security to ensure a conducive atmosphere in the educational sector.

Mr Shaba appealed to the Niger government to provide adequate security in public schools and facilities, citing complaints of vandalism by hoodlums.

“We recall the good old days when schools in Niger state were in good shape. Unfortunately, over the years, the situation has deteriorated, and the facilities have become a shadow of themselves due to poor maintenance culture,” he said.

However, he paid tribute to 25 of their mates who have passed on, emphasising that welfare remains a top priority.

Also speaking, Baba Alfa, Assistant Head Boy of the 1984 set, decried the state of the school they left 40 years ago, saying there was a need to prioritise education as a fundamental pillar for national development.

He also disclosed that the association had been supporting the families of their deceased mates.

Mr Alfa said that the association operates a cooperative society where members can obtain loans, adding that it was part of efforts to support one another.

(NAN)