Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has approved the immediate extension of the retirement age for teachers in the state from 60 to 65 years.
He also increased the maximum service period for teachers from 35 to 40 years, aiming to retain experienced and competent educators in the profession.
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The announcement was made on Sunday, during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oyebanji emphasised the importance of retaining experienced and competent teachers in the state’s education sector.
“A committee will be set up to oversee the elongation of the service year and ensure that only the agile individuals enjoy the privilege,” he stated.
The governor also rewarded outstanding teachers with cash gifts totaling N46 million, in addition to approving upward reviews of Science Teachers’ and Heads of Department allowances.
He confirmed the immediate payment of 2019 leave bonus arrears to further motivate teachers.
Oyebanji expressed appreciation for the invaluable contributions of teachers, describing them as “the foundation upon which the future of the state is built.”
He explained that the measures are part of his administration’s efforts to enhance teachers’ welfare and promote the development of education in line with the shared prosperity agenda.
He assured that his administration would continue prioritizing teachers’ welfare and creating an enabling environment for effective teaching and learning.
“The extension of retirement age is in fulfillment of my promise to reposition the education sector and retain skilled hands in the teaching profession,” Oyebanji added.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, also praised the governor, noting that over N1.6 billion had been released as running grants to schools in the last three years.
She added that more than N6.2 billion had been paid as Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) counterpart funds to support the renovation of schools across the state.
Teachers’ unions, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), commended the governor for his continued commitment to education and the welfare of teachers.
