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In a significant move to address the concerns of teachers in Kogi State, the *Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) State Standing Committee*, led by *Comrade Yakubu Dauda*, paid a crucial courtesy visit to *His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo*, the *Executive Governor of Kogi State*, and *His Excellency, Comrade Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo*, the *Deputy Governor*.
This visit was more than just a formal meeting it was a heartfelt dialogue between the government and the dedicated individuals shaping the future of Kogi State through education. The leadership of the NUT saw this as an opportunity to bring forward the genuine concerns of teachers and seek real solutions that would improve their welfare and the overall education system.
*A TEACHER’S PLEA FOR A BETTER FUTURE*.
Speaking with deep passion and commitment, *Comrade Yakubu Dauda* did not hold back in expressing the *challenges faced by teachers across the state*. He presented a well structured list of requests, ensuring that the voice of every teacher in Kogi State was heard loud and clear.
*Cash Backing for Teachers’ Promotions* Teachers have worked tirelessly, earning their promotions through hard work and dedication, yet many are still waiting for the financial benefits that come with these advancements. The union urged the government to speed up the process, ensuring that teachers receive what is rightfully theirs.
*Reconsideration of Teachers Affected by the Screening Exercise* Many teachers who were affected by the government’s screening process have *genuine cases*. The union passionately appealed for a fair review, so that those wrongly affected can be reinstated and return to doing what they do best educating the future leaders of Kogi State.
*Employment of More Qualified Teachers* Our classrooms are expanding, and our students deserve the best education possible. The union emphasized the urgent need to *recruit more qualified teachers*, ensuring that every child in Kogi State has access to quality education in a well-equipped classroom.
*Support for Tenure Elongation in NUT Leadership* The union stressed the importance of *extending the tenure of NUT leadership* to strengthen the organization’s influence at the national level, which would bring greater recognition and benefits to teachers in the state.
*THE GOVERNOR’S RESPONSE: A RENEWED HOPE FOR TEACHERS*
Governor *Ahmed Usman Ododo*, known for his commitment to progress, carefully listened to the concerns raised by the NUT leadership. His response was filled with *assurance, hope, and a clear direction* towards solving the issues affecting teachers.
> *”We recognize the importance of backing teachers’ promotions with the necessary funds. We are actively working on improving our state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and once that is stabilized, we will ensure that teachers receive the financial benefits attached to their well-deserved promotions.”*
The *screening issue* was another major point of discussion. The governor acknowledged the concerns of teachers affected by the process and made a firm promise:
> *”We will carefully review all genuine cases of teachers affected by the screening exercise. Those who deserve to be pardoned and reinstated will be considered accordingly. Teachers should not suffer unjustly.”*
On the issue of *employment*, the governor reassured the union that his administration is fully aware of the *need for more teachers* and is already making plans to *recruit qualified professionals* to strengthen the education sector.
> *”Our vision is not just to employ teachers but to equip our schools with competent, passionate, and well-trained educators. We want to create an education system that will produce excellent students and future leaders.”*
The governor also *fully supported tenure elongation for NUT leadership*, acknowledging that *a stronger union will have a more powerful voice at the national level*, ensuring that teachers in Kogi State are well represented and recognized.
*GOVERNOR ODODO HONORS TEACHERS, HAILS DEPUTY GOVERNOR AS ‘THE UNION COMMANDER’*
Perhaps the most heartwarming moment of the meeting was when Governor Ododo *personally recognized and appreciated the role of teachers* in the development of society. His words were filled with respect and admiration:
> *”Teaching is not just a profession; it is a calling. The men and women who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds deserve the highest level of respect and support. I am particularly proud that my Deputy Governor himself is a teacher and a leader who understands the struggles, hopes, and aspirations of educators. That is why I call him the ‘Union Commander.’*
His words were met with *a round of applause and deep appreciation* from the NUT delegation.
*A PROMISE OF A BRIGHTER FUTURE*
The meeting ended on a positive note, with the *NUT leadership expressing their gratitude* for the governor’s *listening ear and commitment to positive change*. They pledged to continue *working hand in hand* with the government to ensure that teachers in Kogi State receive the recognition, support, and benefits they rightfully deserve.
Governor Ododo’s response was not just a set of political promises it was a *genuine commitment to improving the education system* in Kogi State. His administration has sent a clear message: *teachers matter, and their welfare will remain a top priority*.
*PRESENTATION OF APPRECIATION LETTER AND PRESS RELEASE*
At the end of the meeting, *Comrade Yakubu Dauda, the NUT State Chairman, presented an appreciation letter* from the *National Executive Council of NUT* to *Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo*. The letter acknowledged the governor’s support for teachers and his commitment to improving education in the state.
In addition, the union *handed over a press release*, boldly stating that *“No Vacancy in Lugard House Until After 8 Years.”* This declaration signified the *union’s full endorsement of the governor’s leadership and its belief in his vision for the continuous transformation of Kogi State*.
This powerful gesture sent a strong message of unity and support from the teaching body, reinforcing their commitment to *stability, progress, and educational excellence* under Governor Ododo’s administration.
*SIGNED:*
*Comrade Yakubu Dauda*.
*NUT State Chairman, Kogi State*.
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