(DDM) – The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Ogun State Wing, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for approving Grade Level 17 for degree-holding primary school teachers, describing the decision as a historic milestone in the development of education in the state.
DDM gathered that the approval also includes a consolidated salary structure for Headteachers-General, a move the union says has repositioned primary education and restored dignity to the teaching profession.
The commendation was contained in a formal letter dated December 19, 2025.
The letter was jointly signed by the Ogun State Chairman of the union, Comrade Sewakanu Oladipupo Noah, and the Principal Secretary, Comrade Oyelere O. Samson.
In the letter, the union expressed deep appreciation to Governor Abiodun for what it described as a visionary, courageous, and transformative policy decision.
The NUT noted that the approval of Grade Level 17 for qualified primary school teachers has significantly elevated their professional status within the state’s public service structure.
According to the union, the policy directly impacts over 14,000 primary school teachers across Ogun State.
The leadership of the union stated that the move has reignited passion, motivation, and renewed commitment among teachers who had long felt marginalized in the public sector salary framework.
For decades, primary school teachers with university degrees had complained of stagnation and limited career progression.
Many of them argued that their qualifications were not adequately reflected in their placement and remuneration.
The union said Governor Abiodun’s approval has addressed these long-standing grievances.
It described the development as a bold departure from previous administrations that failed to prioritize the welfare of primary school educators.
The NUT further explained that the consolidated salary structure for Headteachers-General would improve administrative efficiency and boost morale among school heads.
According to the union, motivated headteachers are better positioned to provide effective leadership and supervision in public primary schools.
The teachers’ body stressed that the decision would have a positive ripple effect on teaching quality and learning outcomes across the state.
Education experts have long argued that teacher welfare is directly linked to student performance.
By improving the career prospects of teachers, the state government is expected to attract and retain qualified professionals in the primary education sector.
The union also noted that the approval aligns with global best practices, where teachers are recognized as the backbone of educational development.
It added that the policy would help curb the migration of qualified teachers to other sectors in search of better pay and recognition.
Beyond welfare, the NUT said the move sends a strong message about the state government’s commitment to strengthening foundational education.
Primary education, the union emphasized, remains the bedrock upon which secondary and tertiary education are built.
Stakeholders have repeatedly warned that neglect at the primary level often leads to systemic weaknesses throughout the education system.
The Ogun NUT leadership praised Governor Abiodun for listening to the concerns of teachers and engaging constructively with labour unions.
The letter described the governor as a leader who values dialogue and inclusive governance.
It also assured the state government of the union’s continued cooperation and support in implementing education reforms.
The union pledged that teachers would reciprocate the gesture through improved dedication, discipline, and professionalism in classrooms.
Education observers believe the approval could set a precedent for other states across Nigeria.
Several teacher unions in neighbouring states are expected to reference Ogun State’s model in their engagements with their respective governments.
The development has also sparked renewed conversations about standardizing teacher welfare nationwide.
(DDM) gathered that many teachers across Ogun State have welcomed the announcement with excitement, describing it as a long-awaited victory.
For them, the approval represents not just a salary upgrade, but recognition of their role in shaping the future of the state.
The policy is expected to take effect following the necessary administrative and budgetary adjustments by relevant government agencies.
As implementation begins, education stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the reforms translate into improved learning outcomes across public primary schools in Ogun State.