The Ekiti State Government is considering raising the retirement age of teachers in the state to 65 years as part of efforts to strengthen the education sector and enhance the welfare of teachers. Governor Biodun Oyebanji made this known during a meeting with the new leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ado-Ekiti.
Governor Oyebanji said his administration would also look into an upward review of allowances for science teachers and committed to offsetting all outstanding gratuities before the end of his first term. According to him, teachers remain central to the state’s shared prosperity agenda and must be well supported to deliver quality education.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, the Governor praised teachers for their invaluable role in human capital development, stressing that their well-being directly impacts students’ performance.
“Education is the most important legacy we can give to our children, and teachers are at the heart of this mission. If you are happy, you will build a future for us because the children are the future of society. Whatever investment we make in education is an investment in peace and prosperity,” Oyebanji said.
He emphasized that his administration would continue to prioritize teachers’ welfare, provide professional development opportunities, and create an enabling environment that makes teaching more rewarding. Oyebanji further declared that the era of treating teachers as “second-class citizens” was over, pledging to reposition Ekiti as a leading education hub in Nigeria.
The Governor also expressed appreciation to the NUT for their consistent support, both before and after he assumed office.
In his remarks, the new NUT Chairman, Comrade Lawrence Egbeyemi, lauded the Governor for his genuine concern for teachers, noting that the administration had already implemented several pro-teacher policies. These include:
Prompt and regular payment of salaries.
Improved working conditions and recognition.
Career progression opportunities up to Grade Level 16.
Employment of over 2,000 new teachers to strengthen the education workforce.
Egbeyemi assured the Governor of the union’s continued cooperation and support to ensure the success of ongoing reforms in the education sector.
With these assurances, Ekiti teachers are hopeful for better conditions, improved motivation, and policies that will secure their dignity and contribution to the state’s future.
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