World Teachers’ Day: Peter Obi Calls for Improved Welfare and Opportunities for Nigerian Teachers

On this year’s World Teachers’ Day, former Anambra governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi joined the global community in celebrating teachers while calling for a better life, improved working conditions, and advancement opportunities for educators across Nigeria.

In a statement on X, Obi lauded the dedication and resilience of Nigerian teachers, whose commitment sustained the nation’s education sector despite numerous challenges.

He emphasised the critical role teachers play in shaping the intellectual and moral development of children, stressing that the government must prioritise their welfare.

I add my voice in demanding a better life, working conditions, and advancement opportunities for all teachers in Nigeria, Obi stated.

Referencing a concerning report that over 30 members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) recently resigned from Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi State due to poor pay and handling of their affairs, Obi highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by educators in the country.

He also noted that ASUU had issued a 35-day ultimatum to the Federal Government on October 1, demanding action on long-standing issues affecting the university system. Similarly, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) had given a 15-day ultimatum for the government to address their demands, further underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The lack of attention to the welfare of our teachers has remained unresolved for far too long, Obi remarked.

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He cited a global teacher shortage of 45 million, with Africa needing 15 million teachers to boost its education sector and Nigeria’s public primary schools facing a shortfall of nearly 195,000 teachers.

With over 18 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, Obi stressed the importance of prioritising the education sector and resolving any lingering issues with teachers to ensure the delivery of quality education to Nigerian children.

I sincerely commend all the Nigerian teachers for their tireless dedication to the growth of education, not minding the various socio-economic challenges burdening every Nigerian, while urging them to keep the fire burning, Obi concluded.

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Oluwasegun Sanusi

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