Atiku Attacks APC Over Teachers' Welfare as NUT Demands Action

Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, has criticised the All Progressives Congress administration for failing to adequately support teachers' welfare, coinciding with the 2026 World Teachers' Day commemoration. In a statement released Sunday through his campaign office, Atiku highlighted the financial strain teachers face as living costs rise across Nigeria, making it difficult for educators to sustain their families while performing their professional duties.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers used the World Teachers' Day platform to issue a broader call to action, demanding that governments at federal, state and local levels prioritise teachers' compensation, job security, professional development and workplace safety. The union's appeal came as multiple state officials, including Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, offered public recognition of teachers' contributions during separate state-level commemorations.

The Federal Ministry of Education responded by announcing expanded investment in the teaching profession. Education Minister Tunji Alausa declared the government's commitment to furnishing educators with professional development opportunities, adequate resources and improved working conditions. The ministry's announcement emphasised that teachers deserve career-long support and formal recognition within the civil service structure.

Beyond salary increases, the Nigeria Union of Teachers broadened its demands to include structural reforms. The union called for a dedicated salary scale for educators and requested that qualified teachers be appointed to senior civil service positions such as Permanent Secretary roles in state administrations. These demands signal that teacher advocacy extends beyond immediate compensation to systemic representation within government hierarchies.