The governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, has described teachers as the true builders of the nation as the world celebrates the 2026 Teachers’ Day.
He praised teachers for their unwavering dedication to nurturing young minds and shaping future leaders, noting that no nation can rise above the quality of its teachers. Adekanmbi pledged to sustain and strengthen the development of the education sector and the advancement of teachers, building on the solid foundation laid by Governor Seyi Makinde.
“As the world marks the 2026 Teachers’ Day, I salute the men and women of honour who have devoted their time and lives to nurturing young minds into becoming renowned professionals across various fields,” he said. He emphasized that the development of any country is directly tied to the quality of its teachers, who mould citizens to contribute meaningfully to the socio economic growth of society.
Adekanmbi noted that the contributions of teachers in Oyo State are evident in the remarkable improvement in educational standards. He highlighted that Oyo State now ranks third nationwide in recent National Examinations Council (NECO) performance metrics, a feat made possible through the dedication, professionalism, and cooperation of teachers. He commended them for being dependable partners who have enabled the present administration to record unprecedented achievements in the education sector.
“As we celebrate this year’s Teachers’ Day, I honour the incredible men and women who shape minds, build character, and light the path to a brighter future,” he said. “Teachers do far more than teach academic lessons; they teach resilience, kindness, critical thinking, and belief in one’s potential.” He described teachers as the foundation upon which all other professions are built, noting that behind every doctor, engineer, leader, scientist, and artist is a dedicated teacher who opened a mind and touched a heart.
Adekanmbi acknowledged the patience, energy, and quiet sacrifices of teachers, observing that although these efforts often go unseen, their impact echoes through generations. He expressed deep gratitude for their commitment, empathy, and ability to turn classrooms into safe spaces for curiosity and growth.
He assured teachers in Oyo State that he would sustain and strengthen the policies and programmes that have made life meaningful for them. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the prompt payment of salaries, including the regular payment on the 25th of every month, widely known as “GSM Day.” He pledged to continue the promotion and upgrading of teachers in line with global standards and to sustain allowances and incentives such as the 27.5 percent teaching allowance, leave bonuses, and 13th month salary bonuses. He added that leadership opportunities given to educators, including appointments as Permanent Secretaries, Tutors General, and Inspectors General, would not only continue but be further expanded.
Adekanmbi concluded by stating that his administration would build on these gains and introduce new reforms to further empower teachers and elevate the education sector.
“Teachers are the architects of Oyo State’s future, and under Omituntun 3.0, they will continue to receive the respect, support, and opportunities they deserve,” he said.
