The Cross River chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) expressed its disappointment with the state government’s ongoing neglect of teachers, especially concerning their welfare and union activities.
During the 2023 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Calabar, state chairman Comrade Gregory Olayi spotlighted the neglect. This year’s theme, “The teachers we need for the education we want: the global imperative to reverse teacher shortage,” resonated strongly, given the significant teacher shortfall the state has experienced over the past eight years.
According to a report by the Guardian, Olayi noted the state government’s oversight in addressing the increasing retirements without hiring new educators. He shared concerning data, pointing out the need for nearly 10,000 secondary school teachers and an even greater number for primary schools.
Among Olayi’s calls to action were routine teacher promotions, tax exemptions for educators, improved school resources, and primary school head teacher allowances.
However, the Director of the Schools Department, Mrs. Okama Ubi Amos, representing Commissioner for Education, Stephen Odey, emphasized the state’s focus on addressing teacher shortages. She noted that the education sector had seen consistent recruitment even with broader hiring constraints.
In related developments, Ogun State’s governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, greenlit the hiring of 1,000 Ogun TEACh interns in honor of World Teachers’ Day. Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, assured teachers of bonus pay in December. Oyo State celebrated three teachers who were recognized with the 2023 Presidential Teachers and School Excellence Award. Meanwhile, Imo State’s Governor, Hope Uzodimma, vowed to increase teacher pay.
The Lagos State chapter has made a plea to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to implement a 65-year service policy, following former President Muhammadu Buhari’s bill signing two years prior. Chairman Hassan Akintoye believes this would allow the state to leverage the vast experience of senior educators approaching retirement.
