World Teachers’ Day: Niger State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Education

The Niger State Government in north-central Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the education sector as part of its ongoing efforts to provide quality education to its citizens.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, made this known during the World Teachers’ Day celebration at the Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna, the state capital.

Dr. Mohammed emphasized that World Teachers’ Day is an occasion dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of teachers worldwide. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who has dedicated your life to the noble calling of teaching,” she said.

The Honorable Commissioner further highlighted that teachers are the architects of the future, not only imparting knowledge but also shaping character, instilling values, and inspiring generations. “Your unwavering dedication, patience, and commitment transform society, one student at a time,” she remarked.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” Dr. Mohammed stressed the importance of empowering teachers. She emphasized that supporting educators with resources, training, and respect is crucial for addressing the evolving challenges in the education system.

Dr. Mohammed also revealed that since taking office in August 2023, the ministry has partnered with educational experts to develop two key policy documents: the Career Path Policy Guide for Teacher Professional Development and the Quality Assurance Framework for Basic and Secondary Education. Both initiatives aim to enhance the quality of education and promote accountability within the system.

She called on all stakeholders to actively support teachers, stressing that educators hold the key to unlocking a brighter and more informed future for society.

Also Read: World Teachers’ Day: Gombe Governor Praises Teachers’ Dedication

In his address, the Niger State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago, praised the state government’s efforts under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago in improving the education sector. He highlighted the distribution of essential supplies to boarding schools and the proactive steps taken by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as positive strides.

However, Akayago expressed concerns over the lack of basic teaching materials, such as chalk and registers, in schools, which has affected operations since the beginning of the academic session. He also raised issues regarding delays in student admissions into junior and senior secondary schools, urging the ministry to address these challenges promptly.

The union also reiterated its longstanding demands, such as extending the retirement age for teachers to 65, implementing domestic servant allowances for primary school teachers, and addressing stagnation in promotions for teachers on grade level 16. These measures, if implemented, would improve the welfare and professional growth of teachers in the state.

He further appealed to the state government to increase teachers’ salaries, especially in light of the economic challenges posed by rising fuel prices. There is hope that the government’s commitment to reviewing and enhancing salaries will be realized after the completion of the ongoing screening exercise.

The union also called on the governor to fulfill the promise of providing three buses to the teachers’ union, a pledge made during the the election campaign. The celebration concluded with a call for teachers to remain steadfast and committed to their profession as they continue to shape the future.A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards for selfless service to humanity to several Nigerlites who have contributed to the development of education in the state.