The Federal Government has awarded a total of N350 million to 12 outstanding teachers drawn from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones in recognition of their dedication, excellence, and service.
The awards were presented in January at the National Teachers’ Summit in Abuja, where two teachers from each zone were honoured.
Each of the 12 awardees — six from basic education and six from senior secondary schools — received N25 million, while the overall best teacher, Mr. Taiwo Solanke from the South-West, received N50 million.
Commending the initiative at the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Annual Solemn Assembly in Abuja on Thursday, the NUT National President, Comrade Audu Amba, described the gesture as laudable but insufficient to address the broader welfare concerns of teachers nationwide.
“If the government does something a little, we should commend it, but that cannot stop us from agitating for the improved welfare of our teeming teachers,” Mr. Amba said.
“What the government has done is commendable, but it does not reflect the overall welfare of teachers that we are asking for.
“In line with our primary responsibility as leaders of Nigerian teachers, we will continue to agitate for the welfare of our members. From local governments to the states and even at the centre, the welfare of our members and a conducive working environment for the teaching profession shall remain our primary goals.”
He stressed the need to reposition teaching as a respected and attractive profession, rather than a last resort for job seekers.
“Any graduate from the university or any tertiary institution who cannot secure employment often considers teaching as the last option. No. Teaching should be seen as a profession where qualified, experienced, and intelligent people engage to educate our people,” he said.
Mr. Amba added that countries with strong education systems prioritise investment in teachers and their welfare.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, urged governments at all levels to improve teachers’ welfare. He described teaching as the bedrock of every other profession and advocated a special salary structure that reflects teachers’ critical role in national development.
Organisers said the awards were intended to boost morale and promote merit-based recognition as part of wider efforts to reform the education sector.
