The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has called for stronger support, professional development and better working conditions for Nigerian teachers as technology and artificial intelligence continue to reshape education.
Alausa made the call in his address at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day commemoration and President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards ceremony.
Speaking on the theme, “Protecting and Advancing the Status of the Teaching Profession in a Rapidly Changing World,” the minister said teachers deserved professional respect, opportunities for career development, appropriate resources, fair recognition and good working conditions.
He noted that technology and artificial intelligence were changing how knowledge was accessed and used, adding that while such tools could help teachers reach learners and tailor instruction, the judgement, encouragement and human connection provided by skilled teachers remained indispensable.
“We must equip teachers to use new tools responsibly and confidently while safeguarding the standards and values of their profession,” Alausa said.
The minister said the Federal Government’s education renewal efforts were focused on improving learning environments, strengthening institutions, providing skills for a changing economy, ensuring reliable data for decision-making, and improving teacher welfare and professional development.
According to him, the government would continue to work with state governments and other partners to improve the conditions in which teachers serve.
Alausa also said teachers working in both urban and remote communities should have the tools and support required to help learners succeed.
He described teachers as central to the development of every profession, noting that doctors, engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs and public servants had all benefited from the work of teachers.
The minister also congratulated recipients of the 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, saying the awards recognised outstanding teachers, school administrators and schools for professionalism, innovation and leadership.
He encouraged the award recipients to maintain the standards that earned them the recognition and inspire others to pursue excellence.
Alausa also acknowledged teachers who did not receive awards, saying their contributions to the education of Nigerian children remained important.
“Every lesson you prepare, every child you encourage and every young person whose confidence you build matters to Nigeria’s future,” he said.
He stressed that improving the teaching profession required collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, school leaders, professional bodies, organised labour, development partners, communities and parents.
The minister further called for sustained respect, investment and partnership for teachers beyond the annual World Teachers’ Day celebration.
“Let us renew our collective commitment to protecting the dignity of the teaching profession, advancing its professional status and ensuring that Nigerian teachers are equipped to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
Alausa thanked teachers across the country for their service, perseverance, professionalism, devotion to children and contribution to the development of Nigeria.
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