By Atoyebi Nike
As the world marks Teachers’ Day, Nigeria’s education sector faces deep structural challenges. Balarabe Rufa’i, National Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has urged governments at all levels to prioritize teacher welfare and educational reforms, describing teachers as “the backbone of the nation’s future.”
Rufa’i, a former teacher at Government Secondary School, Warure, recalled teaching over 200 students daily, many without proper learning materials. “Many shared one textbook, some wrote on scraps of paper but they came with dreams bigger than their circumstances,” he said.
He criticized the appointment of unqualified teachers for political rewards, warning that such practices “destroy futures” and undermine national development.
Across Nigeria, many teachers face overcrowded classrooms, earning between ₦30,000 and ₦45,000 monthly, with salaries often delayed for months. Yet, they remain committed to educating the next generation.
Rufa’i called on state governors to direct subsidy bonuses toward rebuilding education infrastructure and improving teacher welfare. He also challenged the federal government to explain how much of the over ₦100 trillion borrowed has been invested in education.
“Teachers made us who we are. Celebration without reform is empty,” he said. He urged implementation of a special salary scale, massive teacher recruitment, and investments in classrooms that inspire learning.
“To every teacher across Nigeria: we see you, we honour you, and we stand with you. You taught us to believe in a better tomorrow. Now, it’s our turn to fight for the system you keep alive,” he concluded.
