Every October 5, the world comes together in unison to celebrate and honour teachers. Globally, they are the people who shape nations, guide minds, and build futures. However, in Nigeria, the day often comes with mixed feelings, because beneath the euphoria of celebrations lie stories of frustration, neglect, and survival.
Across the country, teachers work in crumbling classrooms, earn meagre pay, and face overwhelming workloads. However, they continue to carry the weight of the nation’s future expectations.
In the 2025 national budget, President Bola Tinubu allocated ₦3.52 trillion for the education sector. Out of that, ₦1.64 trillion was set aside for personnel costs, including teachers’ salaries. Nevertheless, experts say that it is still far from enough. To pay all 2.3 million registered teachers a minimum of ₦70,000 monthly, the government would need approximately ₦1.93 trillion, leaving a ₦290 billion shortfall.
This funding gap explains why some teachers go for months without pay. Many earn between ₦25,000 and ₦50,000, which is far below the national minimum wage, while inflation and rent hikes continue to erode their income.
“Teachers still work under challenging conditions — low pay, poor welfare, overcrowded classrooms, and little chance to grow professionally,” said Jessica Osuere, CEO of RubiesHub Educational Services.
Another teacher, Gift Osikoya, called for better recognition of the teaching profession, noting that teachers are “nation builders who prepare the next generation.”
In some schools, the situation is worse. According to UNICEF, Nigeria’s pupil-teacher ratio averages 124:1 in states such as Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa — far above the global standard. In Ogun State, many public schools have even more pupils per teacher.
However, despite all odds in their paths, Nigerian teachers remain committed. Isaiah Ogundele, a school administrator, lamented that teachers are “not respected like doctors or lawyers,” adding that such neglect weakens motivation and performance.
Experts say quality education cannot happen without motivated teachers. Elizabeth Ohaka, a school owner, explained it clearly: “A happy teacher builds a happy student. If teachers are not satisfied, students will suffer too.”
Mary Udenta, another teacher, called for continuous training and digital learning tools, stressing that “teaching in the 21st century demands new skills and respect.” Others believe Nigeria must finally end the old saying that “a teacher’s reward is in heaven.”
“That cliché has held us down for too long. Teachers’ reward should start here on earth,” said Rhoda, a parent.
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Teachers’ Day 2025, one message rings clear: until the nation values its teachers, it cannot truly build its future.
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