ODODO GOVERNMENT NEGLECTS TEACHERS IN KOGI STATE

It is becoming increasingly painful and discouraging that teachers in Kogi State have been completely neglected under the present administration. Teachers, who form the backbone of any meaningful society, appear to have been forgotten by a government that itself is a product of the very system teachers built.

Since the inception of the Ododo administration, teachers have not received any meaningful welfare support. During festive periods, when many government institutions show appreciation to their workforce through packages and support, teachers in Kogi State receive nothing. No festive packages, no support initiatives, and no welfare consideration.

Even basic professional support schemes that exist in many states are completely absent. There are no soft loan facilities for teachers. There are no laptop schemes to support modern teaching. There are no motorcycle or vehicle loan programs to assist teachers with mobility to their schools. The welfare structure that should encourage productivity in the classroom simply does not exist.

This situation is even more surprising considering that the Deputy Governor himself is a teacher by profession. One would expect that someone who understands the struggles of teachers would champion policies that uplift the profession. Unfortunately, that expectation has not translated into visible action.

It is important to remind the government that every leader occupying public office today was once taught by a teacher. From the governor to commissioners, advisers, and political appointees — all passed through the hands of teachers who dedicated their lives to shaping their future.

The last administration that visibly remembered teachers in terms of welfare and support was during the tenure of Yahaya Bello. Since then, teachers have been left to struggle on their own without any deliberate government intervention aimed at improving their working conditions.

Teachers in Kogi State represent a significant voting population. Our votes matter. Our voices matter. And our contributions to society cannot continue to be ignored.

We therefore call on the Ododo administration to urgently review its approach to teachers’ welfare and introduce meaningful support programs that will motivate educators and strengthen the education system in the state.

A government that neglects its teachers risks weakening the very foundation upon which future generations are built.

By:

Comrade Samuel Adams

Concerned Kogi State Teachers’ Union