The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has warned that neglecting the welfare and professional development of teachers amounts to mortgaging Nigeria’s future.
The council issued the warning in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, to commemorate the 2026 World Teachers’ Day on Monday.
According to the NUJ, teachers remain critical pillars of national development because no country can achieve sustainable progress without adequately motivated, well-trained and professionally respected educators.
The union expressed concern over the challenges confronting teachers, including inadequate remuneration, poor working conditions, insufficient teaching facilities, excessive workloads and limited opportunities for professional development.
It urged the Federal and state governments to move beyond rhetoric and implement policies that guarantee decent welfare, improved working conditions and continuous capacity development for teachers.
NUJ also called for a change in the way teachers are positioned within the education system, saying they should not be regarded merely as implementers of government policies but as strategic partners in the formulation and execution of programmes designed to transform the sector.
The council specifically urged governments to invest in modern classrooms, teaching aids, digital infrastructure and other essential facilities that would enable teachers to perform their responsibilities effectively.
“Investment in teachers is an investment in the future of the country,” the council said, warning that neglecting their welfare would amount to mortgaging the future of generations yet unborn.
While calling for greater institutional support, the NUJ commended teachers in Oyo State for remaining committed to their duties despite prevailing economic challenges.
It urged them to continue upholding professionalism, integrity, discipline and dedication to the teaching profession, while encouraging them to embrace emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital learning tools.
However, the council stressed that the adoption of new technologies should not come at the expense of the ethical standards and human values that remain central to effective education.
NUJ further called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support teachers and protect the dignity and sanctity of the teaching profession.
The council congratulated teachers across Oyo State and Nigeria on the occasion of World Teachers’ Day, assuring them of its continued partnership and advocacy for a stronger education system.
It said a society that genuinely values its future must first value those entrusted with educating its children, insisting that the welfare, dignity and professional advancement of teachers should remain a national priority.
