Atiku Abubakar Critiques Teacher Welfare on World Teachers' Day

On October 5, 2026, Nigeria commemorated World Teachers' Day, with political leaders, labor groups, and education stakeholders honoring teachers for their contributions to national development. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), criticized the government's neglect of teachers' welfare amid rising living costs.

He noted that teachers are forced to work under difficult economic conditions, struggling with transport fares and basic needs. The Nigeria Union of Teachers lamented the non-implementation of a special salary structure approved four years ago.

In contrast, state governments like Ogun and Ekiti reported investments in teacher recruitment and infrastructure, with Ogun state employing over 7,000 teachers and committing N24 billion to education infrastructure. The 2026 celebration theme was “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping Our Futures.” Atiku emphasized that teachers deserve more than praise; they need policies that enhance their welfare.