gun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has hailed teachers as the “foundation upon which every other profession stands,” describing them as the true enablers of national development who deserve society’s highest respect and recognition.

The Governor made the remarks during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, with the theme “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborating Profession.” He was represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to sustained investment in education under the “Building Our Future Together” agenda, emphasizing that education extends far beyond classroom teaching to shaping the values, vision, and vitality of future generations.

“This year’s theme challenges us to see teaching as a collective mission — one built on teamwork, mentorship, and shared learning. Teachers, parents, communities, and government must work together to prepare our children for the future,” Abiodun said.

The Governor commended the state’s teachers’ unions for their dedication and partnership in driving Ogun’s educational reforms, assuring that his administration continues to prioritise teacher welfare, digital competence, professional development, and modern infrastructure in line with global best practices.

“The prosperity of Ogun State rests on your shoulders,” he declared. “We will continue to support you in nurturing future generations who will build a more enlightened and prosperous Ogun State.”

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, lauded teachers as “nation-builders who nurture the minds that shape tomorrow,” while pledging the state’s continued commitment to improving their welfare and professional advancement.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Chairman of TESCOM, Apostle Abiodun Sanyaolu, and SUBEB Chairman, Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, described teachers as “the silent architects of progress and torchbearers of civilisation.” They praised Governor Abiodun for positioning education as a central pillar of the state’s transformation agenda.

Leaders of teachers’ unions also used the occasion to express appreciation for the state government’s investments in digital learning tools and teacher training initiatives. Comrade Sewakanu Oladipupo, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), and Comrade Felix Agbesanwa, President of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), urged the government to introduce additional incentives — including support for families of deceased teachers, education trust funds for out-of-school children, and the adoption of E-lesson notes — to further strengthen the education system.

The 2025 celebration reaffirmed Ogun State’s position as a front-runner in education reform, highlighting the crucial role of teachers as drivers of innovation, guardians of knowledge, and partners in progress in the state’s journey toward a knowledge-driven economy.