The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ogun State has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for approving Grade Level 17 for graduate primary school teachers and endorsing a consolidated salary structure for the Headteacher-General cadre.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Chairman, Sewakanu Oladipupo, and Secretary, Samson Oyelere, the union described the governor’s decision as “unprecedented and groundbreaking”.
According to the NUT, the governor’s decisive action has raised the professional standing of more than 14,000 primary school teachers and reignited enthusiasm and commitment among educators across the state.
The union characterised the career upgrade as a historic step and an example of visionary leadership, highlighting Governor Abiodun’s unwavering dedication to advancing education in Ogun State.
The statement added that, as someone shaped by the teaching profession, the governor has once again shown deep appreciation for teachers, noting that his commitment reflects a genuine passion for teaching and learning that will significantly reshape the state’s educational system.
The union noted that the policy’s impact extends beyond teachers, benefiting the education sector, the state, and the country as a whole. It said the new Grade Level structure would boost morale, attract and retain quality professionals, and ultimately improve learning outcomes and produce a more educated population.
Citing Nelson Mandela’s words that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” the union said the governor has applied this principle effectively through strategic investment in education.
While thanking the governor for enabling teachers to reach the pinnacle of the civil service like their counterparts in other sectors, the NUT said the development has restored hope and optimism among educators, energising them to further raise standards in the education system.
Earlier, the Ogun State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, announced the approval of career progression for Graduate Primary School Teachers (Tutor Cadre) from Grade Level 16 to 17. He explained that the move was intended to address stagnation at the top of the cadre and improve motivation, leading to better service delivery in primary education.
Onasanya also disclosed that Governor Abiodun approved a consolidated salary structure for Headteacher-General, elevating their professional status. He said the policy followed a review of existing career progression frameworks and was designed to enhance learning outcomes.
The Head of Service added that the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has been directed to implement the policy immediately, noting that the initiative aligns with the ISEYA pillar of the administration and reinforces Ogun State’s position as Nigeria’s education hub.
He reaffirmed that the Abiodun administration remains committed to progressive reforms in education and urged teachers to continue delivering quality service.
