WTD 2026: FG Pledges Greater Support, Professional Development for Nigerian Teachers By Beauty Akporido Aroh
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare, professional development and working conditions of teachers across the country, describing the teaching profession as central to Nigeria’s human capital development.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day commemoration and the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards ceremony.
The event also provided a platform for the Federal Government to celebrate outstanding teachers, school administrators, schools and state governments whose contributions have strengthened education delivery across the country.
Among the major award recipients, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was honoured as the Most Outstanding Governor in Contribution to Education, while Mrs Mary Adebayo emerged Best Teacher of the Year, receiving a car prize.
Similarly, Adiola Olufunke of Lagos State was recognised as the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher of the Year and also received a car as part of the award.
Adesola Adedolapo Ajayi of Akure, Ondo State, was honoured as the Best Public School Administrator, receiving a Keke NAPEP as her prize.
Other outstanding awardees from different states received various prizes, including cars, tricycles, motorcycles, washing machines and laptops, in recognition of their contributions to teaching, school administration and educational development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Alausa said the government was committed to protecting and advancing the status of the teaching profession in response to rapid changes in education, technology and the economy.
He said teachers must be provided with opportunities for continuous professional development, appropriate teaching resources, fair recognition and working conditions that would enable them to perform effectively.
According to him, the increasing use of technology and Artificial Intelligence in education presents opportunities to improve teaching and personalise learning, but cannot replace the professional judgement, encouragement and human connection provided by skilled teachers.
He said the government would therefore focus on equipping teachers to use emerging technologies responsibly and confidently while preserving professional standards and values.
Alausa said the Federal Government’s education renewal efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda were focused on improving learning environments, strengthening institutions, developing skills for a changing economy, improving education data and enhancing teacher welfare and professional development.
He stressed that the quality of education received by Nigerian children was closely linked to the strength and professionalism of the country’s teaching workforce.
The Minister also said the Federal Government would continue to work with state governments, school leaders, professional bodies, organised labour, development partners, communities and parents to strengthen teacher preparation, development and recognition.
On the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, Alausa described the initiative as an important national platform for recognising professionalism, innovation, leadership and outstanding contributions to education.
He congratulated the award recipients, saying their achievements should inspire other teachers, administrators and institutions across the country.
The Minister, however, acknowledged that excellence in teaching extends beyond those who received awards, noting that thousands of teachers across Nigeria continue to prepare lessons, mentor learners, encourage children and build the confidence of young Nigerians every day.
He called for sustained investment in the teaching profession beyond the annual World Teachers’ Day celebration, stressing that millions of Nigerian children enter classrooms each school day with hopes, abilities and aspirations.
“These children place a significant responsibility on teachers to help transform their potential into opportunities,” he said.
Alausa urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to protecting the dignity of teaching, advancing the professional standing of teachers and equipping them to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
He commended President Tinubu for what he described as his strong commitment to education and support for policies aimed at placing teachers and learners at the centre of national development.
The Minister concluded by congratulating the 2026 award recipients and appreciating Nigerian teachers for their service, perseverance, professionalism and commitment to educating the nation’s children and youths.
