The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Cross River State has urged the state government to increase education sector funding from 15% to 26% of the annual budget to enhance productivity.
The appeal was made by NUT State Chairman, Comrade Gregory Olayi, during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held on Sunday at the U.J. Esuene Sports Stadium in Calabar. Olayi also called for the promotion of teachers to Grade Level 17 and their appointment as permanent secretaries, noting that similar measures have been implemented in neighbouring states such as Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
He highlighted other critical concerns, including the timely release of the education budget, employment of additional teachers in primary and secondary schools, and prompt payment of salaries for primary school teachers. Olayi warned that the current teacher shortage—exacerbated by the movement of 200 secondary school teachers and 100 primary school teachers to the mainstream sector—could undermine the quality of education if left unaddressed.
“Meeting teachers’ demands would boost productivity and enhance the performance of the education sector,” Olayi said.
Responding on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu, the state’s Commissioner for Education, Stephen Odey, assured teachers of the government’s commitment to making the teaching profession more attractive. He disclosed that arrangements have been concluded for the establishment of an education trust fund to provide support for teachers in the state.
“We are implementing a radical transformation at the Secondary Education Board that will benefit those in the teaching profession,” Odey stated, reiterating the government’s readiness to address teachers’ welfare and strengthen the education sector.
