The recent implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage bill has been met with resistance from several states, with nine failing to implement the new wage. Furthermore, 12 states are still paying teachers the outdated N18,000 minimum wage approved in 2011. This is a clear violation of the National Minimum Wage Act 2024 and must be addressed.
While some states, such as Lagos and Rivers, have set a positive example by paying teachers more than N70,000, others must follow suit. Teaching is a demanding profession that requires dedication, hard work, and passion. Teachers deserve commensurate compensation and respect for their tireless efforts.
Countries that prioritize education and teacher welfare have seen significant development and progress. In Finland, teaching is a respected career, with educators earning competitive salaries and receiving private medical insurance. Similarly, teachers in the US, China, South Korea, and the UK enjoy strong remuneration and support.
Nigeria must learn from these examples and prioritize teacher welfare. This includes addressing the raft of issues that have rendered teaching and learning increasingly obsolete, such as poor pay, inadequate benefits, and lack of investment in the education sector.
State governments must take deliberate efforts to improve teacher welfare, including recruiting and training new teachers, providing scholarships and bursaries to attract the brightest minds, and investing in the education sector. Empowering teachers is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic investment in the country's future.
Ultimately, teachers deserve better than the minimum wage. They deserve respect, dignity, and fair compensation for their hard work and dedication. It is time for Nigeria to prioritize teacher welfare and invest in the education sector to ensure a brighter future for generations to come.