Last week, Nigeria joined other countries in marking World Teachers’ Day, though the celebration stirred mixed emotions as many Nigerian teachers once again highlighted their struggles.
During the occasion, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving teachers’ welfare, recognition, and professional development. The Minister of Education, Maruf Olatunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, made this known at a symposium ahead of the official celebration on October 5. The global theme for the 2025 edition was “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.”
Across the country, education stakeholders and teachers’ unions expressed concern over the slow implementation of policies, poor salaries, and inadequate facilities, all of which they said continued to affect education quality. They urged both federal and state governments to prioritise teachers’ welfare and fulfil their promises to the education sector.
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Comrade Audu Amba, called for better funding for public education and more investment in teachers. He warned that without proper investment in educators, the future of education remained at risk. Amba praised teachers for their resilience and patriotism, assuring them that the union would continue to advocate for their recognition and dignity.
State governors also commended teachers for their dedication and impact in shaping future leaders and citizens, urging them to remain committed to excellence.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools appealed to the government to address the challenges facing private school owners and teachers, especially regarding taxation, welfare, and financial assistance.
Several teachers shared their personal experiences, lamenting that the profession remains undervalued in Nigeria. Michael Divine, a chemistry and mathematics teacher, said that Nigerian teachers are neither appreciated nor properly rewarded. He recounted how private school owners often mistreat teachers, with poor pay and harsh conditions undermining their motivation.
Another teacher, Victor Ngbede, criticised poor remuneration, lack of rights, and intimidation from parents and school owners. He noted that many parents engage teachers only to complain or argue rather than appreciate their work.
Similarly, Samson Igwe lamented that teachers are also undervalued socially, saying it is difficult for male teachers to find partners because the profession is looked down upon. He added that even philanthropists and corporate bodies rarely support teachers, preferring to assist professionals in better conditions.
Overall, the celebration reflected the persistent challenges facing Nigerian teachers despite their crucial role in shaping the nation’s future.
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