The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Hamid Bobboyi, revealed that Nigeria has lost over 30% of its teaching workforce in the past three years, with no significant replacements made to address the shortfall.
Bobboyi disclosed this alarming trend during a six-day training organized by the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with UBEC. The training, held in Kano, focused on enhancing the skills of 30 School Support Officers (SSOs) through the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) and Jolly Phonics programs.
He noted that a significant number of teachers retired, while others left the service without being replaced, leading to a critical shortage in the country’s educational workforce.
Bobboyi praised the Kano State government for its proactive approach in recruiting additional teachers to replace those who retired, urging other states to follow suit.
“Nationwide, in the last three years, particularly beginning with the period of COVID-19, we have lost over 30% of our teaching workforce, which is very frightening. Many retired, while others left without being replaced,” Bobboyi stated. “Kano’s proactive measures in this regard are commendable, and I encourage other states to take similar actions.”
He further emphasized the importance of teacher welfare, highlighting that teachers are essential to the development of future leaders and the nation’s progress. “Teachers are fundamental to the entire education ecosystem. If teachers are neglected, so are the children, and the country cannot develop. To safeguard Nigeria’s future, we must prioritize the welfare of teachers, ensuring they are equipped to nurture the next generation of leaders.”
Bobboyi also commended the efforts of the teacher development unit for organizing the training, describing it as an effective strategy to improve the quality of education in the country.
In his remarks, Yusuf Kabir, Executive Secretary of Kano State SUBEB, stated that the state government has approved the replacement of retired teachers every three months. He also mentioned that to address overcrowded classrooms, the government has approved the construction of four classrooms in each local government area and established committees to monitor and ensure a conducive environment for teaching and learning.
“We have also procured teaching and learning materials to ensure the smooth transmission of knowledge,” Kabir added.
Meanwhile, the 30 SSOs, selected from various local government areas, were trained to provide essential support to teachers handling core subjects such as science and mathematics, with the aim of improving student performance.
