The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and recognition of teachers as important agents in the development of the country.
The assurance by the FGN came ahead of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebrated globally every October 5. The event is used to honour teachers and recognize their vital contributions to education and society.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad on Monday in Abuja.
Speaking during a symposium ahead of the World Teachers Day celebration on Sunday, the duo ministers praised the sacrifices of the teachers.
Alausa described teachers as the custodians of knowledge, builders of character, and the architects of national future.
He lauded teachers as the foundation of every profession, emphasizing that their sacrifices keep the country alive.
“Honestly, you have the most important and the best profession in the country. Who makes a doctor? Who makes an engineer? And who makes a professor? It is the teacher. That is why the government is working assiduously to come up with better packages for you. Light is at the end of the tunnel.
“For too long, teaching has often been practiced in isolation. But when teachers collaborate, students are the ultimate beneficiaries. They receive richer, more engaging instruction and witness firsthand, the power of teamwork and shared responsibility,” he said.
The Minister further assured teachers that the Government was determined to provide the recognition, training, and support they needed to thrive.
He said, “When you want the highest quality of education, what do you need? A high-quality teacher. And when you want a high-quality teacher, what should you do? Give them the recognition, the support, the training, and the cooperation that they need.”
The Minister commended teachers for producing world-class graduates who continue to excel globally.
He said, “Anywhere in the world, when they say a Nigerian student becomes a professional, they do so well. That’s the output of your work. We know we can’t pay you enough, but be proud of yourselves. On behalf of the President, I commend you for your sacrifices, your diligence, and your commitment to building our nation.”
The theme for the 2025 celebration is tagged “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.”
The Day was first proclaimed in 1994 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Education International (EI), and UNICE. This followed the 1966 ILO/UNESCO recommendation concerning the status of Teachers.