The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, ASUSS, has called for improved welfare, better remuneration, and adequate infrastructure for teachers across Nigeria. This appeal was made by the National President of ASUSS, Comrade Olusola Adigun, in Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 World Teachers’ Day. The theme of this year's celebration is “Standing with Teachers: Sixty Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Skills and Shaping Our Future.”
Adigun emphasized that celebrating teachers annually with awards and goodwill messages is insufficient, stressing the need for concrete action to address the challenges confronting the profession. The union renewed its demand for a special salary structure for teachers and full implementation of the 27.5% professional allowance, which many states have yet to implement.
ASUSS also called for the full implementation of the law extending teachers’ retirement age and the provision of modern classrooms, functional laboratories, libraries, ICT facilities, and other basic infrastructure needed for effective teaching and learning. These demands aim to improve the working conditions and overall welfare of teachers in Nigeria.
President of the Trade Union Congress, NLC, Comrade Festus Osifo, urged Nigerians to appreciate the contributions of teachers by reconnecting with those who taught them in primary and secondary schools. He described teachers as the bedrock of the nation and encouraged Nigerians to reach out to at least one former teacher as part of activities marking the day.
Comrade Julius Ogundiran, chairman of ASUSS, FCT chapter, noted that although the administration is making efforts to improve teachers’ welfare, more needs to be done. He highlighted the shortage of over 7,000 teachers, promotion arrears, and housing challenges as key areas that require attention.
Ogundiran appealed for improved welfare and housing support, noting that some teachers commute from distant locations while others reportedly sleep in classrooms. He urged the government to stand with teachers, emphasizing that a strong teaching workforce is essential to building a strong education system and a stronger nation.
The ASUSS demands reflect the ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by teachers in Nigeria and to improve the overall quality of education in the country. The union and other stakeholders continue to advocate for policies and actions that support the welfare and professional development of teachers.
Key points
- ASUSS calls for improved welfare, better remuneration, and adequate infrastructure for teachers.
- The union demands a special salary structure and full implementation of the 27.5% professional allowance for teachers.
- Stakeholders emphasize the importance of appreciating teachers' contributions and addressing the challenges they face.
