By George Omagbemi
Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has paid tribute to Nigerian teachers, while calling for policies that would improve their welfare and ease the rising cost of living.
Atiku made the remarks in a statement issued by his Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, to mark the 2026 World Teachers’ Day.
The former Vice-President said he remained grateful to the teachers who shaped his early education, recalling his teachers in Jada who, according to him, recognised his potential when he was a young orphan.
He expressed concern that many teachers are struggling to meet basic household expenses as the cost of food, transportation, rent and electricity continues to rise.
Atiku said teachers should not be celebrated only on October 5 while being left to cope with difficult living and working conditions for the rest of the year.
“Government cannot praise teachers on this day and leave them to face hardship for the rest of the year. A commemorative message cannot pay a teacher’s bills,” he said.
He also criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, questioning whether the President could identify any of his former teachers or classmates.
The comment formed part of Atiku’s broader criticism of the Tinubu administration over the economic difficulties facing Nigerians.
The ADC presidential candidate, who founded the American University of Nigeria, said his experience in the education sector had reinforced his belief in the importance of teachers to national development.
He promised that, if elected, his administration would pursue policies aimed at reducing the cost of living, supporting decent employment and improving the welfare of teachers and other workers.
Atiku urged Nigerians to match their appreciation for teachers with practical policies that improve their living and working conditions.
World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on October 5 to recognise the contribution of teachers to education and society.
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