Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has voiced deep concerns over the welfare of teachers in Nigeria, attributing the country’s severe shortage of 194,876 teachers in public primary schools to poor working conditions.
Obi emphasized the crucial role teachers play in shaping both the intellectual and moral development of children, speaking in his message on Saturday to mark World Teachers’ Day 2024.
“On this World Teachers’ Day, I join the global community in celebrating the members of a unique and vital profession that serves as the foundation for human development. Today is a moment to honor all teachers, especially those in Nigeria, whose dedication and resilience continue to sustain our education system, despite significant challenges,” Obi stated.
He stressed that the government must prioritize teachers’ welfare, given their indispensable contribution to society. “Teachers, at all levels, are pivotal to the intellectual and moral upbringing of our children. It is, therefore, imperative that their well-being be a priority for the government. I strongly advocate for better living conditions, improved working environments, and enhanced career development opportunities for all Nigerian teachers,” he added.
Obi further pointed out that the neglect of the education sector by Nigerian leaders has led to an exodus of educators and frequent strike threats from academic unions.
“I recently came across a troubling report that no fewer than 30 members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have resigned from Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi State due to inadequate pay and the mishandling of their concerns. Additionally, on October 1st, ASUU issued a 35-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to resolve the ongoing issues plaguing the university system. Just yesterday, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) also gave the government a 15-day ultimatum to address their demands, including better care and attention to members’ needs.”
He lamented that these challenges reflect the longstanding failure to address teachers’ welfare in Nigeria. “This persistent lack of concern for the well-being of our teachers has gone unresolved for far too long.”
The former governor of Anambra State also highlighted the critical shortage of educators, not just in Nigeria, but globally. “Governments must not only focus on teacher welfare but also invest significantly in training and recruiting new educators. Reports suggest the world is currently facing a shortage of 45 million teachers, with Africa alone needing 15 million to strengthen its education sector.”
Obi underscored the urgency of addressing the shortage at Nigeria’s basic education level, where there is a reported deficit of 194,876 teachers in public primary schools. “With over 18 million out-of-school children roaming the streets, the training and hiring of more teachers has become an urgent national priority.”
He urged the government to swiftly resolve its disputes with educators and invest in their welfare, training, and development, ensuring they can continue to deliver high-quality education to Nigeria’s children.
In closing, Obi commended Nigerian teachers for their unwavering dedication to the country’s education sector, despite the socio-economic hardships faced by many. “I wholeheartedly salute the tireless efforts of Nigerian teachers, who remain committed to the growth of education, even in the face of numerous challenges. I encourage them to continue their invaluable work, keeping the flame of education alive.”
