The National Union of Teachers (NUT) in Nigeria has expressed disappointment over the Federal Government's failure to implement a special salary scale for teachers in basic and secondary schools. The scale was approved under the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022. NUT National Deputy President, Kizito Kalu, made this statement during the 2026 World Teachers Day address at Eagle Square in Abuja.
Kalu emphasized that teachers must receive remuneration reflecting the importance of their responsibilities and the prevailing economic realities in the country. He also called for improved working conditions, citing overcrowded classrooms, inadequate furniture, and insufficient instructional materials as major challenges. The NUT's theme for the 2026 World Teachers Day is "Standing with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, advancing the status and shaping our futures."
World Teachers Day was inaugurated on October 5, 1994, at the 44th session of the International Conference on Education in Geneva. The day is set aside to recognize the significant role teachers play in shaping the future of societies.
UNESCO, ILO, UNICEF, and Education International have called for stronger professional support, better working conditions, and enhanced status for educators. They stressed that every learner deserves a teacher who is well-prepared, well-supported, and empowered to thrive in the profession.
The organizations identified quality initial teacher education, continuous professional learning, and safe and supportive working environments as conditions required for teachers to perform effectively. They also called for greater trust in teachers' professional judgement and meaningful participation in shaping education policy through social dialogue.
The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) has saluted Nigerian teachers for their invaluable service to the nation and humanity. The council described teachers as the backbone of national development and the custodians of the country's future.
The Director of Media and Publicity of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Kola Ologbondiyan, commended teachers for their sacrifice, dedication, resilience, and patriotic commitment to the nation. However, he condemned the worsening hardship confronting teachers under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration.
Key points
- The National Union of Teachers is pressing for the implementation of a special salary scale for teachers in basic and secondary schools.
- UNESCO, ILO, UNICEF, and Education International are calling for stronger professional support and better working conditions for educators.
- The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council has commended Nigerian teachers for their dedication and resilience despite facing significant challenges.
