Nigeria Government Approves Special Salary Scale for Teachers

In a significant move to recognize and uplift the teaching profession, the Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a special salary scale for teachers across the country. This momentous decision was announced by President Muhammadu Buhari during the celebration of World Teachers Day on October 5, 2020. The President, represented by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, unveiled not only an enhanced salary structure but also several other measures aimed at revitalizing and repositioning the teaching profession in Nigeria.

Key Highlights:

1. Special Salary Scale and Increased Retirement Age:

   • The special salary scale is applicable to both basic and secondary school teachers.
   • President Buhari increased the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years, recognizing their valuable experience and dedication.

2. Extended Years of Service:

   • Teachers’ years of service were extended from 35 to 40 years, providing longevity in their careers.

3. Government’s Commitment to Education:

   • The decision reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges in the education system, particularly the shortage of qualified and dedicated teachers.

4. Attracting the Best Minds:

   • The new policies aim to attract the best minds into the teaching profession, fostering an environment where quality education can thrive.

5. Comprehensive Incentives:

   • Various incentives were introduced, including a reintroduction of bursary awards for education students, automatic employment for education graduates, stipends for Bachelor of Education students, and funding for teaching practice.

6. Infrastructure and Recognition:

   • The government plans to build low-cost houses for teachers in rural areas and sponsor teachers for annual refresher training.
   • Annual Presidential teachers and schools awards will be expanded to cover more categories, with outstanding winners considered for National Awards and National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) awards.

7. Teacher Well-being:

   • Measures such as prompt payment of salaries, consideration for first-line charges in annual budgets, timely promotion, provision of loan facilities, free tuition, and automatic admission for teachers’ children aim to enhance the overall well-being of teachers.

Conclusion:

The Federal Government’s approval of a special salary scale for teachers marks a crucial step towards recognizing the vital role educators play in shaping the nation’s future. These comprehensive measures not only address the immediate needs of teachers but also signify a commitment to the long-term improvement of Nigeria’s education system. As the government focuses on attracting and retaining the best talents in the teaching profession, it is poised to create a positive impact on national development through the production of quality students. This landmark decision is undoubtedly a beacon of hope for the education sector in Nigeria.