Dr. Christy Salami Zaku: A Trailblazer in Taraba State's Educational Sector

When you think of passion, dedication, and transformative impact in education, Dr. Christie Salami Zaku immediately comes to mind.

Growing up in Wukari, Taraba State, she embarked on a journey fueled by her love for teaching, shaping lives, and making a difference in the Nigerian educational sector.

As her son, I couldn’t be prouder to share her inspiring story - a story of resilience, excellence, and commitment.

Beyond being my mom, Dr. Christie Zaku is a true leader who has dedicated decades to education and continues to champion its growth in Taraba State and Nigeria at large.

Early Life and Education

Born in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, Dr. Christie Salami Zaku’s foundation for excellence was laid early.

She attended St. Mary’s Primary School (1972–1978), earning her First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC).

Her educational drive took her to Marmara Government Secondary School, Wukari, where she obtained her GCE in 1983.

Understanding the importance of advancing her skills, she pursued a National Certificate in Education (NCE) at the College of Education Hong, Adamawa State in 1988.

Her quest for knowledge didn’t stop there - she went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science Education (BLS Ed.) from the University of Maiduguri in 1995.

Always striving for greater heights, Dr. Christie completed a Master’s in Educational Administration/Planning at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in 2015.

In 2024, her relentless pursuit of excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Educational Administration/Planning from Taraba State University, Jalingo.

A Career Rooted in Dedication

Dr. Christie’s career spans over three decades, marked by unwavering dedication and transformational leadership.

Starting as a teacher at Marmara Government Secondary School, Wukari (1989–1991), she steadily rose through the ranks.

Her roles included:

Teacher, Government Day Secondary School Wukari (1991–1996).

Teacher, Magami Government Day Secondary School (1997–2000).

Vice Principal, Government Day Secondary School Kona (2002–2004).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School Appawa, Lau (2007–2010).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School Lankaviri (2010–2011).

Principal, Government College Jalingo (2011–2013).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School Zing (2013–2015).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School Jauro-Gbadi, Jalingo (2015–2018).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School, Nukkai (2018–2020).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School, Salihu Dogo (2020–2021).

Principal, Government Day Secondary School, Howai Mile Six (2022 to Date).

Through every posting, Dr. Christie left an indelible mark, mentoring teachers, inspiring students, and fostering a culture of academic excellence.

Dr. Christie's Leadership and Professional Development

Dr. Christie’s leadership goes beyond the classroom.

She has attended numerous trainings, workshops, and conferences, including:

1. Mandatory Professional Training of Principals (2007–present) – An annual training sharpening her leadership and administrative skills.

2. All Nigerian Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) – A platform for driving educational policies and innovations.

3. Train the Trainers Workshop on Quality Assurance in Primary and Secondary Schools (2016) – Ensuring the highest standards in education.

Her commitment to lifelong learning has made her a formidable force in education, earning her recognition among peers and students alike.

Dr. Christie Salami: A Perfect Fit for Taraba’s Educational Advancement

Dr. Christie’s work ethic is second to none. With Taraba’s current governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, championing free education, her expertise is more relevant than ever.

Her ability to manage schools effectively, ensure quality assurance, and inspire students aligns perfectly with the state’s vision for educational growth.

Imagine a Taraba State where:

• Schools are thriving hubs of innovation and learning.

• Principals and teachers receive continuous professional training.

• Every student, regardless of background, has access to high-quality education.

Dr. Christie Salami Zaku can make this vision a reality.

The Personal Side: My Amazing Mom

Let me take a moment to share the side of Dr. Christie that not everyone knows. Beyond her impressive resume, she’s the best mom anyone could ask for.

Her commitment to her family is as strong as her dedication to her career.

She taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of education.

Growing up in Jalingo, I watched her balance work and family with such grace that it seemed effortless.

She’s a devoted Christian, spending her free time reading, watching TV, and listening to gospel music.

Is Dr. Christie Salami Zaku the Perfect Fit for Taraba State’s Educational Sector?

Without a doubt, Dr. Christie is a shining example of what leadership in education should look like.

Her wealth of experience, combined with her passion for teaching and administration, makes her an invaluable asset to Taraba State and Nigeria as a whole.

Here’s how you can get involved:

1. If you’re a policymaker, consider appointing Dr. Christie in key educational sectors, agencies in Taraba State and Nigeria.

2. Reach out to Dr. Christie for insights on transforming education through quality assurance and administrative reforms.

3. Share this post to celebrate her remarkable journey and inspire others.

For inquiries or collaborations, feel free to contact Dr. Christie Salami Zaku through the Post Primary Schools Management Board, Jalingo, Taraba State.

Simon Taki Zaku,

Founder, CEO, IBIFoundry

For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog.