Alausa described the transition from assumption-based planning to evidence-based governance as one of the most significant reforms being implemented in Nigeria’s education sector. The minister urged all states to complete their Annual School Census using the digitised platform, commending Kaduna and Borno States for their progress while encouraging other states to accelerate implementation. Alausa also called on Commissioners to take full advantage of the World Bank-supported HOPE Education Programme, which provides $552 million in performance-based financing to states that meet agreed implementation milestones. Representing the World Bank Country Director, Mr. Matthew Verghis, the Senior Economist and Task Team Leader for the HOPE Education Programme, Mr. Shin Nomura, reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s education reform agenda through the HOPE Education Programme. He urged states to complete all preparatory requirements to enable timely access to programme funding.