The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has commended teachers for their sacrifices in shaping the future of society, describing them as critical pillars of national development.
This is contained in a statement jointly signed by its chairman, Akeem Abas, and secretary, Temidayo Adu, to commemorate the 2026 World Teachers’ Day.
The NUJ, in the statement issued on Monday, said no nation could achieve sustainable development without adequately motivated, well-trained, and professionally respected teachers.
The union expressed concern over the challenges confronting teachers, including inadequate remuneration, poor working conditions, insufficient teaching facilities, excessive workload, and limited opportunities for professional development.
It called on the federal and state governments to move beyond rhetoric by implementing policies that would guarantee decent welfare, improved working conditions, and continuous capacity development for teachers.
The NUJ stressed that teachers should not be treated as mere implementers of education policies but as strategic partners in the formulation and execution of programmes designed to transform the education sector.
It urged governments to prioritise the provision of modern classrooms, teaching aids, digital infrastructure, and other essential facilities needed to enable teachers to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
The council said investment in teachers was an investment in the future of the country, stressing that neglecting their welfare would amount to mortgaging the future of generations yet unborn.
It commended teachers in Oyo State for remaining committed to their duties despite the prevailing economic challenges, urging them to uphold professionalism, integrity, discipline, and dedication to the teaching profession.
The NUJ called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support teachers and protect the sanctity of the teaching profession.
The council urged teachers to embrace emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital learning tools, while maintaining the ethical standards and human values that remain central to effective education.
The union congratulated teachers across the state and Nigeria on the occasion, assuring them of the union’s continued partnership and advocacy for a stronger education system.
It said a society that truly values its future must first value those entrusted with educating its children, adding that the welfare, dignity, and professional advancement of teachers must remain a national priority.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
