On Monday, at the 2026 World Teachers' Day celebration held at the NUT Pavilion in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for Lagos classrooms to adapt to the demands of the digital economy and artificial intelligence. The event, themed "Standing With Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing its Status and Shaping Our Future," drew attention to the evolving role of teachers in modern education. Sanwo-Olu was represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
Sanwo-Olu's administration has taken steps to bolster the education sector, including the recruitment of 4,353 qualified teachers between 2023 and 2025. These new educators were deployed across the state's education districts and the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board. Furthermore, another recruitment exercise has been approved through the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board to further strengthen the teaching workforce. This move aims to address the need for more teachers in Lagos State.
The governor urged teachers to uphold professionalism and integrity while calling on education managers and school administrators to create supportive environments where teachers can perform effectively. He emphasized that the classroom of today is not the same as the classroom of yesterday, and teachers must be equipped for a future shaped by technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and a changing global economy. Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the importance of continuous skill acquisition for teachers.
In addition to recruitment and training, Sanwo-Olu's administration has prioritized teachers' welfare. The government has maintained its practice of paying salaries on the 23rd of every month and has approved N102.5 million in housing loans for teachers. The governor also mentioned that requests concerning teachers' retirement age and the Annual Teachers' Merit Award are receiving government attention. These measures aim to improve working conditions and recognize excellence among teachers.
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, commended teachers for their contribution to the state's development, noting that their impact should not be measured solely by students' examination results but also by the professionals and responsible citizens who emerge from their classrooms. Lagos Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reported that various government interventions have led to improvements in teachers' welfare, infrastructure, teaching, and learning outcomes.
Key stakeholders, including Dr. Olatoye Makaila Ayinde, called for increased investment in teachers' professional development, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital content creation. Ayinde advocated for modern laboratories, smart classrooms, and improved internet access in public schools. He also urged the government to strengthen teacher licensing through the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria and provide special bursaries and scholarships for students studying education.
Lagos State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Comrade Akintoye Hassan, welcomed the government's efforts but highlighted concerns requiring attention, including improved security in schools, better infrastructure, and the restoration of the annual merit awards. Addressing these issues would help improve working conditions and recognize excellence, dedication, and innovation among teachers across Lagos State.
Key points
- Sanwo-Olu's administration has recruited 4,353 qualified teachers between 2023 and 2025 to strengthen the state's education sector.
- The governor emphasized the need for teachers to acquire new skills in technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
- The government has approved N102.5 million in housing loans for teachers and maintains paying salaries on the 23rd of every month.
