Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a new retirement policy for teachers in the state, raising the retirement age from 60 to 65 years and extending the length of service from 35 to 40 years.
The governor made the announcement on Sunday, October 5, during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti.
According to him, the new policy takes immediate effect and is part of ongoing reforms to improve the quality of education in the state by retaining experienced teachers in classrooms for longer.
“This decision is to ensure we do not lose valuable teaching experience too early. Our teachers are key to the success of our education sector,” Oyebanji said.
To implement the policy effectively, the governor said a special committee will be set up to oversee the process. He added that only teachers who are physically and mentally fit will benefit from the service extension.
In addition to the retirement age extension, Governor Oyebanji also used the Teachers’ Day celebration to reward outstanding educators in the state.
He presented cash prizes worth N46 million to exceptional teachers from different schools across Ekiti State. The gesture, he said, is meant to recognize and encourage dedication, hard work, and innovation in the teaching profession.
“Teachers are the foundation upon which the future of our state is built. This initiative is part of our shared prosperity agenda to enhance their welfare and motivate them to continue shaping the next generation,” he said.
As part of broader efforts to improve teacher welfare, the governor also announced an upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Departments in public schools.
He further directed the immediate payment of outstanding 2019 leave bonus arrears, which have been long awaited by many teachers.
Stakeholders in the education sector have praised the governor’s announcements, describing them as timely and encouraging.
A senior teacher at the event, Mrs. Funke Adeyemi, thanked the government for recognizing the efforts of teachers. “We feel seen and appreciated. The retirement age extension will allow many of us to contribute more before leaving the service,” she said.
The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Ekiti State Chapter, also expressed its support for the new policy, noting that it will help address the shortage of experienced teachers and improve education delivery across the state.
With this move, Ekiti State joins a growing list of Nigerian states that have extended teachers’ retirement age in a bid to retain skilled manpower in public schools.
