The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has urged the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to raise the retirement age for teachers in public schools from 60 to 65 years. The appeal is in accordance with the Retirement Age Act enacted by the National Assembly last year and assented to by the former President, Muhammadu Buhari.
Comrade Titus Amber, the National President of the NUT, made this plea during the Education Leadership Workshop organized for the State Working Executive Committee members of the Lagos State Wing of the NUT in Ikorodu on Tuesday. Represented by the National Treasurer, Comrade Segun Raheem, Amber emphasized that increasing the retirement age would serve as a morale booster for teachers in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Raheem, a former State Chairman of the NUT, pointed out that the meetings of the Committees on Establishment, which established the modalities for the Act, were held in Lagos. He expressed concern that it would be unjust if Lagos lagged behind in implementing the Act, as some states across the nation have already begun the implementation.
“While we appreciate the commendable efforts of Governor Sanwo-Olu in improving facilities in public schools, we must not overlook the welfare of teachers,” Raheem stated. He further emphasized that the retirement age issue was just one aspect of the welfare package announced for teachers three years ago.
In agreement, Comrade Hassan Akintoye, the Lagos State Chairman of the NUT, confirmed that the union has engaged with the state government, ensuring that all necessary procedures have been followed. He stressed that since the matter pertains to the law, it should not be perceived as a privilege for teachers. Akintoye expressed confidence that Governor Sanwo-Olu, now beginning his second term in office, would soon make the necessary pronouncement, leading to a positive resolution.
Addressing the 103 participants gathered from various parts of the state, Akintoye highlighted the importance of knowledge, experience, and exposure for effective leadership within the union. He underscored that the workshop aimed to enhance participants’ capacity and deepen their understanding of the significant responsibilities they hold.
Comrade Gbenga Ayetoba, the State Secretary of the NUT, explained that the participants included newly-elected officials at the branch level across the state, as well as state executive members. He further emphasized that the three-day event would provide them with essential knowledge about unionism.
The NUT Study Circle Project National Coordinator, Comrade S.D. Igbelowowa, added that the program also aimed to pass down the dreams and aspirations of the union’s founding fathers to the current leaders in the education sector.
Furthermore, Prince Solomon Abimbolu, the Chairman of the Elders Council, NUT Lagos State, encouraged the participants to strive for greater heights beyond their current local or state leadership roles. He urged them to be diligent in their duties, recognizing the immense impact they could make.
As the discussions continue between the NUT and the Lagos State government, teachers in public schools eagerly anticipate a positive outcome that aligns with the Retirement Age Act and ensures their welfare is upheld.
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