Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has affirmed that teachers are crucial to the success of his administration’s shared prosperity agenda.
The governor made this declaration during a meeting with the new leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), led by its Chairman, Comrade Lawrence Egbeyemi, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kolapo Olusola.
According to a statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, Oyebanji praised the teachers for their significant role in the state’s human capital development.
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He pledged to introduce more welfare packages, emphasising that the well-being of teachers directly impacts the quality of education for students.
Oyebanji stated that his government would not view teachers as second-class citizens, a perception he said is now a thing of the past.
He underscored that education is the bedrock of sustainable development and that teachers, through their daily efforts, are shaping the state’s future.
The governor added that Ekiti’s future and prosperity are directly linked to the quality of education its children receive.
He further assured the union that his administration would prioritise their welfare, provide opportunities for professional growth, and create a supportive environment to make their work more fulfilling.
The governor also promised to review key issues, including the proposed 65-year retirement age for teachers, an upward review of allowances for science teachers, and the settlement of all outstanding gratuities before the end of his first term.
Oyebanji congratulated the new NUT executives and expressed gratitude for the union’s unwavering support, stating, “Education is the most important factor we can give to our children, and you are in the business of educating our children; whatever investment we make in education is an investment for our own peace.”
However, NUT Chairman Lawrence Egbeyemi commended Oyebanji for his commitment to teachers’ welfare.
He highlighted several achievements under the current administration, including the prompt payment of salaries, improved working conditions, career progression to Grade Level 16, and the employment of over 2,000 teachers.
Egbeyemi noted that the governor has addressed more than 85% of the union’s demands, describing it as “unprecedented in the history of the state.”
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He assured the governor that teachers in the state appreciate his efforts and will demonstrate their support.
Also present at the meeting were Head of Service Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, and other senior government officials.
