World Teachers’ Day: Gov Oyebanji Extends Ekiti Teachers’ Retirement Age to 65, Rewards Outstanding Educators

World Teachers’ Day: Gov Oyebanji Extends Ekiti Teachers’ Retirement Age to 65, Rewards Outstanding Educators

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the extension of the retirement age of teachers in the state from 60 to 65 years, while also increasing their years of service from 35 to 40.

The governor made the announcement on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji said the decision was aimed at improving the welfare of teachers and retaining experienced hands within the state’s education system. He explained that the new policy takes immediate effect and applies to all qualified teachers across public schools in the state.

In addition to the extension, the governor announced cash rewards totalling ₦46 million for outstanding teachers and schools who distinguished themselves in their duties. He also approved an upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Departments to further encourage specialization and commitment in the education sector.

To boost staff morale, Governor Oyebanji equally directed the immediate payment of the outstanding 2019 leave bonus arrears owed to teachers, pledging that his administration will continue to prioritize the welfare of educators as part of its broader human capital development agenda.

Speaking at the event, which drew teachers, education stakeholders, and government officials from across the state, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s belief that “no state can rise above the quality of its teachers.”

He commended Ekiti teachers for their dedication, resilience, and contribution to the state’s impressive academic performance in national examinations, adding that education remains a core pillar of his development agenda.

Governor Oyebanji urged teachers to continue upholding high standards of professionalism and integrity, assuring them that his government would sustain policies and programs that promote excellence in the education sector.

This year’s World Teachers’ Day celebration was themed “The Teachers We Need for the Education We Want: The Global Imperative to Reverse the Teacher Shortage.”