Ekiti Gov promises improved welfare, considers new retirement age for teachers

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has assured teachers in the state of enhanced welfare packages, including consideration of a proposed 65-year retirement age, upward review of allowances for science teachers, and payment of all outstanding gratuities before the end of his first tenure.

Oyebanji gave the assurance in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday while receiving the new leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) led by its Chairman, Mr. Lawrence Egbeyemi, who was accompanied by the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ekiti, Mr. Kolapo Olusola.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, the governor described teachers as “critical agents” in the actualisation of his administration’s shared prosperity agenda.

He commended them for their contributions to human capital development and stressed that their well-being was central to the government’s pursuit of quality education.

“Education is the most important factor we can give to our children, and you are in the business of shaping their future. If you are happy, you will build a future for us, because children are the future of any society. That is why we must invest in your welfare. The era of looking down on teachers is over,” Oyebanji said.

He further expressed appreciation to the NUT for its consistent support, both before and since his assumption of office.

Earlier, the NUT Chairman, Mr. Lawrence Egbeyemi, lauded the governor for what he called his “genuine concern” for teachers, highlighting several achievements under Oyebanji’s administration. These include prompt payment of salaries, improved working conditions, teachers’ career progression up to Grade Level 16, employment of more than 2,000 new teachers, and greater recognition of their role in society.

Egbeyemi assured the governor of the union’s continued support, pledging that teachers would remain committed to delivering quality education across the state.