- Teachers are seeking cash backing for their promotions.
- They’re also requesting the employment of new teachers.
- The teachers appreciate past actions by Governor Ododo, including minimum wage inclusion and salary arrears payments.
Kogi Teachers: ‘We Need More Support!’
Teachers in Kogi State are making a passionate appeal to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to provide the necessary financial backing for their recent promotions. They also emphasize the urgent need to hire new teachers to fill the significant gaps in both primary and secondary schools across the state. This plea comes directly from Comr. Yakubu Dauda, the Kogi State chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT).
Gratitude and Urgent Requests
During a press conference held in Lokoja, following a prayer session known as the 2025 Solemn Assembly, teachers showered Governor Ododo with praise for his leadership. Dauda stated, “The administration of Gov Ododo is one that has been very rewarding for Primary School Teachers in the State. The administration has brought smiles to the faces of Primary School Teachers.” They specifically thanked the governor for including teachers in the N72,000 minimum wage payment and for clearing their September 2020 salary arrears. That’s a big win!
Why the Solemn Assembly Matters
The Solemn Assembly is an annual prayer session where primary school teachers come together to thank God and pray for the governor. It’s a time for reflection and a chance to voice their needs for the upcoming year. It’s a bit like a town hall meeting, but with more prayers and less shouting (hopefully!).
The Big Asks: Cash and New Faces
While grateful for the governor’s past actions, the teachers are now seeking his intervention in two key areas:
- Cash Backing for Promotions: Teachers want the financial benefits that come with their promotions to be realized.
- Hiring New Teachers: They stress the critical need for more teachers to alleviate the current manpower shortage.
Training and Retraining: Investing in the Future
Beyond hiring, the NUT is also advocating for continuous training and retraining programs for teachers. This is seen as essential for keeping educators up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and ensuring quality education for Kogi State students. Think of it as leveling up their skills!
Why This Matters: The Bigger Picture
Investing in education is investing in the future. By providing teachers with adequate salaries and resources, and by addressing the staffing shortage, Kogi State can ensure a brighter future for its students and the community as a whole. As Nelson Mandela famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Kogi State: Vital Statistics
Kogi State is a state in North Central Nigeria, known as the Confluence State because the Niger and Benue rivers meet there. Here are some quick facts:
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital | Lokoja |
| Population | Approximately 4.5 million |
| Main Industries | Agriculture, mining |
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