By Ann Okoroafor
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has approved the extension of teachers’ retirement age from 60 to 65 years, with years of service also raised from 35 to 40.
The governor made the announcement on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti. He also rewarded outstanding teachers with cash gifts totalling ₦46 million.
Oyebanji further approved an upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Department and directed the immediate payment of the 2019 leave bonus arrears. He said the measures were designed to motivate teachers, retain experienced professionals, and strengthen the education sector.
“A committee will be set up to oversee the elongation of service years and ensure that only agile individuals enjoy the privilege,” Oyebanji said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving teachers’ welfare under his Shared Prosperity Agenda and urged educators to continue supporting his developmental efforts as he seeks re-election.
Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, commended the governor for prioritising teachers’ welfare. She noted that his administration had released over ₦1.6 billion as running grants to schools in the last three years, paid more than ₦6.2 billion as UBEC counterpart funds for school renovation, and provided ₦1.5 billion for WAEC examinations.
Union leaders described Oyebanji’s initiatives as a clear demonstration of his passion for education and teachers’ well-being.
