…assures welfare-enabling legislation if elected
By Ime Silas
UYO — The 2027 House of Representatives candidate of the Labour Party for Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Nsit Atai/Uruan Federal Constituency, Mr Ikakke Bassey, has celebrated teachers in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria on the occasion of the 2026 World Teachers’ Day, describing them as the bedrock of societal development.
In a goodwill message to mark the day, Ikakke lauded the dedication, sacrifices and resilience of teachers who continue to shape the future of children despite daunting challenges.
He said teachers deserve more than ceremonial praises, but concrete policies that improve their welfare and working conditions.
In his message, the Labour Party candidate bemoaned what he described as lack of favourable working conditions for teachers in the country, noting that many teachers still work in dilapidated classrooms, with poor remuneration and limited opportunities for professional growth.
He assured that if elected as member representing Uyo Federal Constituency in 2027, he would work in conjunction with relevant institutions with a view to enacting legislations that would guarantee good working conditions and welfare for teachers.
“Teachers are nation builders who deserve honour, respect and support. On this World Teachers’ Day, I celebrate every teacher in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria for your invaluable contributions to the growth of our society,” Ikakke said.
According to him, “It is disheartening to see that those who mould the future of our children still lack favourable working conditions. Many teach in overcrowded classrooms without adequate teaching aids, with salaries that do not reflect the importance of their work.”
He added, “If elected to represent Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Nsit Atai/Uruan Federal Constituency in 2027, I will work in conjunction with relevant institutions with a view to enacting legislations that would guarantee good working conditions and enhance the wellbeing and welfare of teachers.”
Ikakke noted that education remains the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and driving sustainable development, and teachers are central to achieving that goal.
He stressed that no society can rise above the quality of its teachers, and therefore investing in teachers is investing in the future of Akwa Ibom and Nigeria at large.
The House of Representatives hopeful said his legislative agenda would prioritize education, including pushing for improved budgetary allocation to the sector, teacher training and retraining, provision of modern teaching facilities, and special incentives for teachers in rural communities.
“Our teachers must be motivated. We need laws that ensure prompt payment of salaries, access to housing schemes, health insurance, and continuous professional development for teachers. This is the kind of welfare-enabling legislation I will champion if elected,” he assured.
He further called on the Akwa Ibom State Government, local governments, private sector and other stakeholders to continue to support teachers and create an environment where the profession is attractive and rewarding for young talents.
“As we celebrate World Teachers’ Day 2026, let us go beyond words. Let us commit to policies that truly value teachers. Our children deserve the best, and the best starts with a well-supported teacher,” Ikakke stated.
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on October 5 to appreciate teachers and recognize their contributions to education and society.
