THE UNSUNG ARCHITECTS: WHY NIGERIA MUST PRIORITISE TEACHERS OVER POLITICAL ELITES

 

The bedrock of any thriving society lies not in the grandeur of its political offices or the opulence of its appointees, but in the quiet dedication of its teachers. These unsung architects of the future mold young minds, instill values, and equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills necessary for progress. Therefore, it is a profound misallocation of national priorities that the welfare of Nigerian teachers consistently lags behind that of senators and political appointees. To build a truly prosperous and equitable Nigeria, the government must urgently recognize the pivotal role of educators and invest in their well-being, addressing the systemic neglect that discourages bright young minds from entering this crucial profession.

The influence of teachers extends far beyond the classroom walls. They are the foundational pillars upon which all other professions are built. Doctors, engineers, lawyers, and even politicians themselves owe their initial intellectual and moral development to the guidance of dedicated teachers. Teachers cultivate critical thinking, foster creativity, and instill a sense of civic responsibility in their students. They are the frontline soldiers in the fight against ignorance and the catalysts for social mobility. A well-supported and motivated teaching workforce translates directly into a more educated, skilled, and engaged citizenry, which is the ultimate engine of national development. Neglecting their welfare is akin to undermining the very foundations upon which Nigeria's future rests.
Conversely, while senators and political appointees hold positions of significant authority and responsibility, their primary function is to manage and govern the existing structures. Their impact, while important, is contingent upon the quality of the human capital nurtured by teachers. A nation can have the most brilliant policies and the most robust institutions, but without a well-educated populace capable of understanding, implementing, and contributing to them, these efforts will ultimately fall short. Prioritizing the welfare of political elites over those who shape the very individuals who will operate these systems is a shortsighted and ultimately self-defeating strategy.
The stark reality is that the teaching profession in Nigeria suffers from a debilitating lack of prioritization, leading to a palpable fear among young people of pursuing it as a career. Two primary factors contribute to this apprehension: poor remuneration and a perceived lack of career progression.
Firstly, the issue of poor remuneration is a significant deterrent. Teachers, despite their crucial role, are often subjected to meager salaries that barely afford them a decent standard of living. In a society where economic realities are harsh, the prospect of a lifetime of financial struggle is a powerful disincentive for talented individuals considering their career paths. Why would a bright graduate choose a profession where their dedication and hard work are not adequately valued, when other sectors offer significantly better financial rewards? This disparity not only demoralizes existing teachers but also actively discourages the best and brightest from entering the profession, perpetuating a cycle of under-resourced and under-appreciated educators.
Secondly, the perceived lack of career progression within the teaching profession further contributes to its unattractiveness. Unlike many other sectors that offer clear pathways for advancement, skill development, and increased responsibility, teaching often appears as a stagnant career with limited opportunities for upward mobility. This lack of a clear trajectory can be deeply demotivating for ambitious young individuals who seek professional growth and recognition. The absence of robust professional development programs and clear avenues for promotion within the teaching service creates a sense of being trapped in a system with little prospect for personal and professional advancement.
To reverse this dangerous trend and truly harness the transformative power of education, the Nigerian government must undertake a fundamental shift in its priorities. Investing in teachers' welfare is not merely an act of benevolence; it is a strategic imperative for national development. This prioritization should manifest in several key areas:
  SIGNIFICANT SALARY INCREASES: Teachers' salaries must be commensurate with their crucial role in society and competitive with other professions requiring similar levels of education and responsibility. This will attract and retain talented individuals within the teaching service.

  IMPROVED WORKING CONDITIONS: Investing in better infrastructure, providing adequate teaching materials, and ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment will enhance teachers' effectiveness and job satisfaction.
  ROBUST PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES: Providing continuous training, workshops, and opportunities for further education will empower teachers to enhance their skills and stay abreast of modern pedagogical approaches.
 Clear Career Progression Pathways: Establishing transparent and merit-based promotion structures will provide teachers with a sense of purpose and incentivize them to excel in their profession.
 Recognition and Appreciation: Publicly acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of teachers through awards, recognition programs, and positive media portrayal will help elevate the status of the profession in society.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government stands at a critical juncture. It can continue to prioritize the comfort and privilege of its political elites, or it can make a decisive investment in the very foundation of its future – its teachers. By recognizing their invaluable contribution and prioritizing their welfare through improved remuneration, working conditions, and career prospects, Nigeria can attract and retain the best minds in the teaching profession. This, in turn, will lead to a more educated, skilled, and ultimately more prosperous nation. The time to recognize the unsung architects of our society and give them the support they deserve is now, for the future of Nigeria depends on it.

©️ Nwokwu Solomon Chukwuemeka