The Kebbi State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media that alleges poor education funding and inadequate teacher remuneration in the state. The union described the video as old, edited, and doctored to create a false impression about the state government's performance in the education sector. This development has sparked a controversy amid renewed public attention on teachers' welfare and the state of education in Nigeria.
According to the state NUT Chairman, Zaki Sarki, the video and its claims are misleading and aimed at discrediting the administration of Governor Nasir Idris. He stated that the video was being circulated by individuals allegedly sponsored by opposition politicians seeking to incite teachers and other workers against the government. Zaki emphasized that the allegations failed to acknowledge significant interventions by the Idris administration since assuming office.
Zaki Sarki highlighted that the state government has improved teachers' welfare by reviewing salaries from below the current minimum wage to N75,000, describing this development as a major intervention in workers' welfare. He also cited the construction of mega schools across the four emirates, the construction of over 2,500 classrooms, recruitment of more than 2,000 teachers, and provision of furniture and other learning materials as evidence of government investment in education.
The NUT chairman argued that the circulating video appeared designed to portray the education sector as neglected while ignoring visible improvements recorded under the present administration. He urged opposition politicians and critics to distinguish between legitimate criticism and the circulation of manipulated materials capable of misleading the public. Zaki also appealed to those making claims about education in the state to verify available records before drawing conclusions.
The controversy comes amid renewed public attention on teachers' welfare and the state of education as Nigeria joins other countries to mark the 2026 World Teachers' Day. The union's stance has sparked a mixed reaction, with some supporting the government's efforts and others criticizing the dismissal of the viral video. The issue has raised concerns about the accuracy of information circulating on social media and the need for fact-checking.
Zaki Sarki emphasized that the NUT would continue to engage with the government on issues affecting teachers while supporting policies aimed at improving the quality of education across the state. He solidified the union's support for Governor Idris, stating that they would continue to support him in providing dividends of democracy to the people of Kebbi State. The union's position has significant implications for the education sector in Kebbi State.
The Kebbi State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers has called on individuals making claims about education in the state to verify their facts before making accusations. The union's dismissal of the viral video has significant implications for the education sector, highlighting the need for accurate information and constructive criticism. The government's efforts to improve education in the state will continue to be closely monitored by stakeholders.
Key points
- The Kebbi State NUT has dismissed a viral video alleging poor education funding and inadequate teacher remuneration as doctored and misleading.
- The state government has improved teachers' welfare by reviewing salaries to N75,000 and investing in education infrastructure.
- The union has urged critics to verify available records before drawing conclusions about the government's performance in the education sector.
