Niger: Education Ministry denies withholding funds for Milo Basketball Championship
Niger State Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, has denied alleged claims of intentionally withholding funds for the sponsorship of the state’s basketball team to the Nestle Milo Basketball Championship in Lagos.
The Commissioner, in a statement issued by the ministry’s Information Officer, Priscilla Nagarta Tumaka, described the allegations as false, unfounded, and misleading.
Dr. Mohammed explained that though the budget for the team’s sponsorship was duly approved by Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, the necessary funds were not released for use, contrary to the misinformation currently circulating.
According to her, “Investigations have confirmed that the official organizers of the National Basketball Championship, Nestle Milo, have made sufficient provisions for the feeding, accommodation, and flight tickets for all participating teams, including the very necessities requested by the heads of the basketball team.”
“The Ministry wants to reassure the public that it is steadfastly committed to transparency, accountability, and the enhancement of both sports and education in Niger State.”
The statement said that in response to this challenging situation, an investigative committee has been established to thoroughly scrutinize the circumstances surrounding these allegations.
“Any individuals found responsible for disseminating misinformation or engaging in mismanagement will face appropriate consequences in accordance with established regulations.”
“The Ministry is unwavering in its commitment to promoting excellence in academics and extracurricular activities, including sports, to benefit students throughout the state.”
She urged the public and the citizens of Niger State to dismiss any erroneous claims or slanderous narratives targeting the reputation of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education or its leadership.
Niger: Education Ministry denies withholding funds for Milo Basketball Championship
