By Yahaya Idris, Abuja
The Labour Party has called on governments at all levels to declare a National State of Emergency in Nigeria’s teaching sector, citing concerns over the welfare, working conditions and professional development of teachers across the country.
The party made the call in a statement issued on Monday, October 5, 2026, to commemorate World Teachers’ Day.
In the statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the Labour Party described Nigerian teachers as the “bastion of the nation’s knowledge and learning” and commended their contribution to the development of children and young people.
The party, however, expressed concern over what it described as the deteriorating position of teachers in Nigerian society.
According to the Labour Party, teachers have continued to demand improved learning conditions for pupils and students as well as better working conditions and welfare for themselves.
The party assured Nigerian teachers of its continued support, noting that its roots are connected to the labour movement from which the Labour Party emerged.
“As the 2027 elections approach,” the party urged teachers to support Labour Party candidates contesting elective positions across the country.
It argued that the Labour Party remained best positioned, in its view, to advance the interests of teachers and promote improved conditions of service.
The party also cited developments in Abia State, where it said Governor Alex Otti had fulfilled campaign promises made to teachers, as an example of what could be achieved under Labour Party leadership.
The Labour Party said it believed similar measures could be implemented across the federation if its candidates were elected in 2027.
Beyond political support, the party called for urgent government intervention in the education sector.
It urged authorities to prioritise the training and retraining of teachers, improve learning environments and address teachers’ welfare and working conditions.
The party stressed that no country could achieve sustainable development if teachers responsible for preparing future generations were poorly motivated, inadequately equipped and insufficiently rewarded.
It also reflected on the popular saying that “a teacher’s reward is in heaven,” arguing that the expression should not be interpreted as justification for poor remuneration or neglect of teachers.
The Labour Party concluded by celebrating Nigerian teachers and reaffirming its commitment to a Nigeria where teachers are respected, adequately rewarded and provided with the resources required to educate future generations.
Happy World Teachers’ Day to all Nigerian teachers.