Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged governments and stakeholders across the world to take urgent action to tackle the growing global shortage of teachers, describing educators as the “true heroes” of nation-building.
In a statement issued on Sunday to commemorate World Teachers’ Day 2025, the First Lady celebrated Nigerian teachers for their dedication, resilience, and contribution to shaping future generations.
“Teachers are true heroes, shaping minds, nurturing dreams, and guiding generations. As a lifelong teacher myself, I salute you all on this special day,” she said.
This year’s World Teachers’ Day, themed “Focusing on the Global Teacher Shortage,” underscores the need for stronger policy and financial commitment to the education sector.
Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the shortage of qualified teachers remains a major threat to achieving quality education, calling for immediate action to reverse the trend.
“The shortage of teachers is a challenge we must confront with urgency — by empowering educators, investing in their growth, and inspiring more people to join this noble profession,” she added.
She noted that education forms the backbone of national development and reiterated her belief that supporting teachers is vital to building a sustainable and inclusive society.
“On this World Teachers’ Day 2025, we must draw more attention to one of society’s noblest professions. When we uplift teachers, we uplift generations yet unborn,” the statement read.
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on October 5 to honor educators worldwide and mark the 1994 signing of a joint recommendation by the International Labour Organisation, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, on the status of teachers.
