The Uneme-speaking people of Edo State have urgently called on the state government to address the declining education standards and worsening security in their communities.

Leaders from Anegbette, Udochi, Erhurun, Akiosu, Enekhua, Imiava, Uzanu, Ekpedo, and Akpama communities raised the alarm at the launch of a N500 million Education and Security Trust Fund and Award ceremony in Benin City.

They highlighted the deterioration of primary and secondary education due to the absence of qualified teachers and expressed concern about the increasing insecurity in their communities.

President of the Uneme National Development Association (UNDA), Babatunde Obabori, urged Edo State and local councils to provide social amenities to attract and retain teachers in rural communities.

He stressed UNDA’s mission to promote educational excellence, support a safer society, and complement government efforts at all levels. Peter Akpatason, representing the Akoko-Edo Federal Constituency, highlighted families’ financial challenges in paying school fees and stressed the importance of community support in preventing children from dropping out of school.

The Uneme Traditional Rulers Council Chairman, Alhaji Yakubu Momodu Ugbodaga, called on Uneme people living abroad to contribute to the fund to address the current challenges in their communities.

The event raised approximately N40 million, which will be used to provide classrooms, educational materials, and teacher accommodation in Uneme communities.