The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Lagos State Wing, has called on the Lagos State Government to implement the 65/40 years retirement policy for teachers, improve school infrastructure, and restore the annual merit award for teachers. Chairman of the NUT, Lagos State Wing, Hassan Mujeeb, made the demands during the celebration of World Teachers' Day. The theme of this year's celebration is "Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping Our Futures."
Mujeeb appreciated teachers for their sacrifices and commitment to duty, saying they remain counsellors, mentors, caregivers, and second parents to learners. He noted that standing with teachers goes beyond celebrating them during awards or when excellent results are needed. The NUT chairman emphasized that it means being there when they need better working conditions, listening when they speak, and considering their welfare when policies are made.
On the retirement policy, Mujeeb said the demand is backed by law, citing the Harmonized Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act 2022, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari. He also stressed the importance of school security and teachers' welfare. Additionally, he called for the appointment of Headmaster-Generals from among serving head teachers in primary schools to strengthen academic leadership and instructional supervision.
Mujeeb urged the government to provide classrooms conducive for learning, adequate furniture, functional laboratories, libraries, proper sanitation, well-equipped staff rooms, and reliable water supply. He noted that the physical environment affects learning outcomes. The NUT chairman also demanded greater attention to teachers' health and welfare, saying teaching is intellectually, emotionally, and physically demanding.
The NUT chairman appealed for the restoration of the Annual Merit Award for Teachers, which has not been held since 2022. He said it served as a platform for rewarding excellence and motivating professionalism before its suspension. Mujeeb commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritizing education in his development agenda and acknowledged the cordial relationship between government and the organized teaching profession.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, described teachers as the true pillars of society who awaken curiosity, nurture potential, and inspire students to dream beyond limits. The Governor called for stronger collaboration among parents, communities, school owners, teachers, and policymakers to improve learning outcomes and protect the integrity of the teaching profession.
The Governor urged teachers to uphold professional ethics and accountability while assuring them of his administration's continued support. He commended their dedication in shaping future leaders. The NUT Lagos Wing Secretary, Gbenga Ayetoba, gave the vote of thanks, appreciating Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, and other officials for their support and contributions to the success of the celebration.
Key points
- - The Lagos NUT is demanding a 65-year retirement age for teachers, citing a law signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari. - The union also wants improved school infrastructure and the restoration of the annual Teachers Merit Award. - Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration has prioritized education, and the Governor has called for stronger collaboration to improve learning outcomes.
