TEACHERS DEMAND BETTER WELFARE AS FG, GOVS PLEDGE SUPPORT

Educational sector stakeholders rally on World Teachers’ Day as unions call for enhanced remuneration, improved infrastructure, and stronger professional security

Nigerian teachers have renewed calls for comprehensive welfare packages and enhanced working conditions, even as the Federal Government and state governors pledged renewed commitment to uplifting the teaching profession.  

The appeals were made during the commemoration of World Teachers’ Day and the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards ceremony held in Abuja.  

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, stated that the Federal Government is fully committed to improving the standard of living, professional development, and general operating environments for educators nationwide.  

The minister emphasized that while technology and artificial intelligence are rapidly transforming global education systems, the human connection, judgment, and dedication provided by skilled teachers remain irreplaceable.  

He assured stakeholders that federal authorities will continue collaborating closely with state governments to bridge existing gaps in school infrastructure, prompt salary disbursements, and career advancement frameworks.  

However, representatives of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and various regional affiliates stressed that systemic challenges including inflation pressures, delayed allowances, and infrastructural deficits in rural public schools continue to undermine the dignity of the profession.

Union leaders urged state governors to move beyond ceremonial pronouncements by fully implementing approved salary structures, providing subsidized housing schemes, and ensuring adequate security in vulnerable learning environments.

Several state governments utilized the occasion to announce localized incentives, with select administrations declaring work-free days for teachers and rolling out merit-based awards to recognize exceptional classroom service.