Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the immediate extension of the retirement age for teachers in the state from 60 to 65 years, and the years of service from 35 to 40, as part of efforts to motivate and retain experienced educators in the teaching profession.
The announcement, which sparked widespread jubilation among teachers, was made during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held on Sunday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti. The event attracted over 5,000 teachers who turned the venue into a festive carnival, singing and dancing in appreciation of the governor’s teacher-friendly policies.
In addition to the retirement age extension, Governor Oyebanji rewarded outstanding teachers with cash gifts totalling ₦46 million, approved an upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Departments, and authorized the immediate payment of outstanding 2019 leave bonuses.
The governor described teachers as “the foundation upon which the future of the state is built,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving their welfare under the shared prosperity agenda. He explained that the decision to extend the retirement age was part of his broader vision to strengthen the education sector and retain skilled educators.
“To ensure efficiency, a committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the extended service years and ensure that only agile and competent teachers benefit,” Oyebanji stated.
Reassuring educators of his continued commitment, the governor said his administration would keep prioritizing teachers’ welfare and creating a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning. He also used the occasion to formally announce his intention to seek re-election for a second term, calling for the continued support and prayers of teachers across the state.
Oyebanji said: “The 2019 leave bonus was paid yesterday, and by tomorrow, you will start receiving your alerts. On the retirement age, it has been approved for willing and capable teachers. The review of Science Teachers’ and Heads of Departments’ allowances will also be finalized next week.”
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, in her remarks, commended the governor for his unwavering commitment to education and the welfare of teachers. She highlighted some of his achievements, including the release of over ₦1.6 billion in running grants to schools over the last three years, ₦6.2 billion in UBEC counterpart funding for school renovations, and ₦1.5 billion for WAEC fees to support students.
Leaders of teachers’ unions—including Comrade Sola Adigun, National President of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS); Mr. Lateef Adesiyan, representing the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT); and Comrade Adedeji Egbeyemi, Ekiti State NUT Chairman—praised Governor Oyebanji for his continued demonstration of love, commitment, and support for teachers and education in the state.
Source:Africa Publicity
