Teachers in Ekiti State have been thrown a lifeline as Governor Biodun Oyebanji approved the immediate extension of the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years and increased the maximum years of service from 35 to 40.

The announcement came on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, which attracted over 5,000 teachers. The event, transformed into a carnival, saw teachers in colorful Ankara attire sing and dance in appreciation of the governor’s teacher-friendly policies.

In a move to further motivate educators, Governor Oyebanji presented N46 million in cash gifts to outstanding teachers, approved an upward review of Science Teachers’ and Heads of Department allowances, and ordered the immediate payment of 2019 leave bonuses.

Oyebanji, while thanking teachers for their contributions to the state’s development, said the retirement extension is part of efforts to retain experienced hands in the profession. He disclosed that a special committee would oversee the process to ensure only able and willing teachers benefit.

“I have heard your requests regarding the mandatory retirement age, and this has been approved,” the governor said. “This is only for able and willing teachers. Regarding Science and Heads of Department allowances, the Head of Service is reviewing them for approval next week. The 2019 leave bonus has been paid, and alerts will begin reaching teachers shortly.”

The governor also solicited the support of teachers ahead of his re-election bid, assuring them that his administration will continue to prioritize their welfare and create an enabling environment for effective teaching and learning.

Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, the Commissioner for Education, praised the governor’s efforts, highlighting the release of over N1.6 billion as running grants to schools in the last three years, N6.2 billion as UBEC counterpart funds for school renovations, and more than N1.5 billion in exam-related payments for WAEC, BECE, and other state exams.

Meanwhile, leaders of teachers’ unions, including the National President of ASUSS, Comrade Sola Adigun, and the NUT, represented by Mr. Lateef Adesiyan, lauded Governor Oyebanji for his continued commitment to improving teachers’ welfare.

The event ended on a high note, with teachers expressing renewed motivation and optimism for the future of education in the state.