Daud Olatunji
In commemoration of the 2024 World Teachers’ Day, the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) in Ogun State, on Friday, called for improved welfare of the teachers in the state and Nigeria.
The World Teacher’s Day holds every October 5, to mark the global celebration of teachers.
Speaking with PLATFORM TIMES after the service held at the Sahadatul Abbadiyyah Central Mosque, Abeokuta.
The ASUSS Chairman in Ogun State, Dr. Comrade Oluwaeeun Agbesanwa who was accompanied to the service by the Trade Union Congress Chairman in the state, Akeem Lasisi , the Secretary of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, Tiwalade Akingbade, among others, emphasized the importance of the annual observance.
He described it as a platform to draw attention to the critical role teachers play in society.
He noted that the Jumat service was a tradition the union upheld every year to reflect on their profession and the challenges faced.
“We are here for the Jumat service that we normally do every year to commemorate the World Teachers’ Day celebration,” Agbesanwa said.
“This is a time for teachers to remember that our voices must be heard. We must continue to remind the government that our welfare is crucial, and we should not be treated as second-class citizens.”
Agbesanwa called on the government, particularly at the federal level, to prioritize the welfare of teachers by improving their living conditions.
He advocated for a shift from the current minimum wage structure to a living wage that would enable educators to live more comfortably.
“The government in power must make life easy and palatable for us, as that is the only way they can get the best from teachers,” he added.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Ogun State government in addressing some of the concerns of teachers, including the recent employment of more teachers, Agbesanwa urged Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration to continue to respond positively to the union’s requests.
“The Ogun State government is trying its best. We informed them of the need for more teachers, and they have responded well by employing some. We hope that this continues,” the chairman said.
Agbesanwa further expressed optimism that the newly sworn-in President of Nigeria would take more decisive steps in enhancing the welfare of teachers across the country, ensuring that they receive a living wage that is on par with their colleagues in other professions.
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