By BONIFACE AKARAH

The 1980–82 set of the Federal School of Arts and Science (FSAS), Aba Alumni Association, has called for the declaration of a state of emergency in Nigeria’s education sector, citing deteriorating standards in public schools.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the group’s biannual meeting held in Umuahia from April 23 to 25, 2026, and signed by the President, Tony Eijeji, Vice President, Francis Iweha-Onukwu, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Johnson Onyekachi Owanta.

The alumni said there was an urgent need for both federal and state governments to prioritise education reforms.

“We urge federal and state governments to re-establish sixth form colleges to bridge existing academic gaps and address the declining standard of education,” the communiqué stated.

It added that “a state of emergency should be declared on education due to the deplorable condition of public schools across the country.”

During the meeting, members toured the Aba Power Plant and their alma mater, now serving as a demonstration school, where they assessed developments in the education and power sectors.

On electricity supply, the association commended Aba Power for its output, noting that the company is currently supplying 188 megawatts to nine local government areas.

“We commend Aba Power for its capacity to deliver 188MW to nine local governments and urge the state government to extend the ring circuit to the remaining eight local government areas,” the group said.

The alumni also acknowledged ongoing infrastructure projects in Aba, attributing the changes to the administration of Governor Alex Otti.

“We observed significant urban renewal in Enyimba City, including improved road networks, public lighting, and modern bus stops,” the communiqué noted.

The group further welcomed the government’s partnership with Radisson Blu to redevelop the Enyimba Hotel, describing it as “a strategic move to reposition the state’s hospitality sector.”

On human capital development, the association commended the state government for improving welfare for teachers and pensioners.

“We applaud the enhanced welfare packages for teachers, the clearance of pensioners’ emoluments, and the introduction of healthcare benefits for the elderly,” the alumni stated, urging other states to adopt similar measures.

The association said its resolutions were aimed at promoting sustainable development, particularly in education and infrastructure, while encouraging continued policy reforms at both state and national levels.