The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, candidate for Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly election, Hon. Thomas Victor Onwubiko has congratulated teachers across Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II and Nigeria on the occasion of the 2026 World Teachers’ Day.
Onwubiko described teachers as indispensable contributors to national development, saying the progress of every society is closely linked to the quality of its teachers and the education they provide to younger generations.
In a goodwill message marking the annual celebration, the NDC candidate commended teachers in Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II for their dedication, patience, and commitment to educating children and young people despite the numerous challenges confronting the profession.
He said teachers perform responsibilities that extend beyond classroom instruction, noting that they help shape the character, values, skills, and aspirations of future generations.
According to Onwubiko, every professional in society, including doctors, engineers, lawyers, scientists, entrepreneurs, administrators, and political leaders, has passed through the hands of teachers at one stage of their education.
He therefore urged governments at all levels to accord the teaching profession the recognition and support it deserves.
The NDC candidate said celebrating teachers should not be limited to speeches and ceremonies but must be reflected in concrete policies that improve their welfare, remuneration, working conditions, and professional development.
He noted that teachers are expected to educate millions of Nigerian children while contending with rising living costs, inadequate teaching facilities, overcrowded classrooms, and other challenges.
Onwubiko expressed concern that poor remuneration and difficult working conditions could undermine morale within the profession and discourage talented young Nigerians from choosing teaching as a long-term career.
He called for improved salaries and welfare packages for teachers, alongside regular training and opportunities for career advancement.
The NDC candidate also emphasised the need to provide schools with adequate teaching and learning materials, modern facilities, and conducive environments where teachers can perform their duties effectively.
He said investment in teachers should be regarded as an investment in Nigeria’s future rather than simply an expenditure.
Onwubiko further called on parents, communities, and other stakeholders to respect and support teachers, noting that the responsibility for educating children should not be left to teachers and government alone.
He particularly acknowledged the contributions of teachers serving in Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II, describing them as important partners in building the future of the constituency.
According to him, the quality of education available to children in the constituency will have a direct impact on the social and economic development of the community in the years ahead.
He urged teachers not to be discouraged by the difficulties associated with their profession, assuring them that their sacrifices and contributions to society remain valuable.
The 2026 World Teachers’ Day is being celebrated globally under the theme, “Standing with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, advancing its status and shaping our futures.”
Onwubiko said the theme was particularly relevant to Nigeria, where teachers continue to face challenges relating to remuneration, working conditions, professional recognition, and access to continuous development.
He said standing with teachers must involve more than publicly describing them as nation builders.
“Teachers deserve to be adequately rewarded for the enormous responsibility they carry in shaping the next generation,” he said.
He added that a country that genuinely wants sustainable development must prioritise education and the welfare of those who deliver it.
Onwubiko also encouraged teachers across Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II and Nigeria to continue upholding the values of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to service.
He assured them that their efforts in the classroom are contributing to the development of the human capital required to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
As the country marks World Teachers’ Day, Onwubiko called on governments, educational institutions, parents and communities to renew their commitment to supporting teachers and creating an education system where educators are respected, properly motivated and equipped to succeed.
He concluded by saluting teachers across Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II and Nigeria for their service and sacrifices, describing them as “the architects of the nation’s future.”
