Dr Angela Ajala Assumes Office as Head of National Commission for Colleges of Education

Dr Angela Ajala has officially assumed office as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), pledging sweeping reforms to strengthen teacher education in Nigeria.

The National Commission for Colleges of Education is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing colleges of education in Nigeria. It sets standards and supervises teacher training programmes nationwide.

Dr Angela took over leadership of the Commission in Abuja on Tuesday, following her inauguration alongside other education leaders. Her appointment had earlier been announced by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on March 12, 2026. She is the first woman to hold the office.

Speaking at the inauguration, she accepted the responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty, expressing appreciation for the confidence reposed in her by the government. She also described teachers as the quiet architects of the nation’s future, noting that strengthening teacher preparation would significantly improve learning outcomes and national development.

The new NCCE boss assured staff of improved welfare and a more conducive work environment to boost productivity, efficiency, and service delivery. 

Dr Angela brings over three decades of experience in education and training to the role. She has served as Executive Director of Ladela Schools since 2004 and has extensive expertise in education management, policy development, and school administration.

She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English from Ahmadu Bello University, alongside professional training in leadership, counselling, business strategy, and agriculture.

Over the years, Dr Angela has contributed significantly to the development of Nigeria’s education sector. She played a key role in establishing the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) and served on the committee that drafted its constitution. She has also served as a member of the governing board of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), mentoring school administrators across the country.

Ajala has held key leadership roles across education and professional bodies, including advisory and presidential positions. She is also an author of education-focused books and has received several national and international awards for her contributions to the sector.