… Emphasizes the importance of recognizing teachers’ contributions on earth
The Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Hon. Obiora Obeagu, has honored 28 dedicated teachers, head teachers, and school principals with awards of excellence, reaffirming the government’s commitment to prioritizing teachers’ welfare and elevating education standards.
Hon. Obeagu praised the Smart Schools initiative by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, stating that it represents the most reliable path toward a prosperous and crime-free future for Isi-Uzo and the entire state.
The awards were presented during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration at the Isi-Uzo Local Government Secretariat in Ikem, where teachers from all primary and post-primary schools within the LGA gathered to honor the UN-observed day dedicated to celebrating teachers’ contributions to society.
In an address delivered by Barr. Azubuike Odo, a former Secretary of Isi-Uzo LGA, while Hon. Obeagu attended a state-organized retreat for Council Chairmen, he emphasized the vital roles teachers play in nation-building and the necessity of celebrating their contributions.
“It is our duty to recognize and appreciate our esteemed teachers for their invaluable and remarkable contributions to society. Among all professions, none holds more nobility than teaching, the foundation upon which all other professions stand.
“This occasion also allows us to express our gratitude to our governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for prioritizing education. When discussions arise about Supreme Court judgments on local government financial autonomy, I find it amusing because, as a second-term chairman, I am aware that the governor is even providing financial support to local governments.
“Although primary education is primarily a local government responsibility, the administration is undertaking the construction of 260 smart schools across all 260 wards. Notably, the governor is establishing 11 Smart Schools in our 11 wards. Where would we have acquired over N11 billion to fund these projects?
“These groundbreaking school initiatives will offer free education and state-of-the-art learning environments, connecting local communities to the global landscape. They will significantly decrease the number of out-of-school children and combat the rise of substandard private schools that jeopardize our development and children’s futures.
“Furthermore, he has been granting wage awards to teachers since December 2023. In March of this year, he extended the minimum wage to primary school teachers after years of waiting. Approximately three months ago, he approved the release of N1.9 billion for the payment of four years’ accumulated leave allowances for teachers,” Obeagu stated.
Regarding teachers’ welfare, Obeagu assured that the days of saying teachers’ rewards are only in heaven are over.
“We will reward you here, and then God will reward you in heaven. Our administration will collaborate with your leaders to enhance your welfare packages. We aim to introduce new incentives to promote greater performance and competitiveness among teachers,” he added.
Speaking to reporters, Mrs. Onyinye Obeagu, the wife of the Chairman Isi-Uzo LGA, who presented the awards, remarked that the awards were a surprise for the teachers and marked the first of their kind in Isi-Uzo. She expressed that the initiative aims to motivate teachers and reinforce their commitment to their work, demonstrating that their efforts are both recognized and rewarded.
In her opening remarks, the Education Secretary for Isi-Uzo Local Government, Lady Rachael Odo, commended the Council Chairman for initiating the awards and encouraged teachers to enhance their performance.
“As we celebrate teachers today, remember to stay updated in knowledge, fulfill your civic duties, and maintain your health through sports and other extracurricular activities,” she advised.
Some award recipients, including Uzoma Nnachi, a class teacher at Central School, Umuaram, and Casmia Ugwu from Community Secondary School, Mbu, expressed surprise at being recognized, noting that they had never imagined someone was observing their efforts or celebrating their contributions, as this was the first such recognition in Isi-Uzo.
Guests in attendance included Paul Ugwuagbo and former executives of Isi-Uzo Council, with the highlight of the event being a march past by a group of teachers.
