The implementation of the new minimum wage for teachers in public primary and secondary schools in Nigeria is facing challenges due to financial implications and slow progress, according to findings by Vanguard.
The proposed salary package for teachers under the welfare scheme promised by the government in 2020 amounts to at least N345 billion monthly across all tiers of government. This is based on the proposed minimum wage of N150,000 per month for teachers and the approximately 2.3 million licensed teachers registered with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).
While the Federal Government is responsible for paying teachers in unity colleges, state governments oversee secondary schools, and local governments, in collaboration with state universal basic education boards, handle primary schools.
Despite the promise made by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2020, progress has been slow, with only 15 out of the 36 states implementing the increased retirement age for teachers. The Southwest region has notably not begun implementing the new retirement age.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) expressed frustration over the lack of progress, citing government bureaucracy and economic challenges. Dr. Mike Ene, the NUT Secretary General, highlighted the need for action and urged for discussions with relevant government officials.
In response, the Registrar of TRCN, Prof. Josiah Ajiboye, expressed hope for the continuation of the implementation process under the current administration. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between TRCN and labor unions like NUT, acknowledging the economic constraints but advocating for gradual implementation of the proposed reforms.
Despite efforts by TRCN and advocacy from NUT, challenges remain in fully implementing the new minimum wage and retirement age for teachers across all states, with issues such as economic constraints and bureaucratic processes hindering progress.