Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency in Lagos State, has felicitated teachers in Ajeromi and across Nigeria as the country joins the rest of the world to commemorate World Teachers’ Day 2026.
OmoBarca described teachers as indispensable partners in national development, noting that their contributions extend far beyond the classroom to shaping the character, knowledge, skills, and aspirations of future generations.
In a goodwill message marking the occasion, the NDC candidate commended teachers in schools across Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency for their dedication, resilience and commitment to educating children and young people despite the challenges confronting the teaching profession.
He said teachers occupy a strategic position in the development of every society because they are responsible for transmitting knowledge, developing critical thinking, and preparing young people to become productive citizens.
According to him, no country can achieve sustainable economic growth, technological advancement, social stability, and democratic development without a strong and properly supported teaching workforce.
OmoBarca acknowledged the difficult conditions under which many Nigerian teachers perform their duties, including inadequate remuneration, overcrowded classrooms, limited teaching resources, and insufficient opportunities for professional development.
He therefore called for greater investment in the teaching profession, stressing that improving teachers’ welfare should be regarded as a national priority rather than an optional policy objective.
He said better salaries, improved working conditions, and access to modern teaching facilities and continuous professional development would not only improve teachers’ morale but also enhance the quality of education available to Nigerian children.
The NDC candidate particularly commended teachers in Ajeromi Ifelodun for their role in educating children from diverse social and economic backgrounds and helping to build the human capital needed for the future of the constituency.
He noted that teachers often perform responsibilities beyond their formal duties, serving as mentors, counsellors, role models, and community leaders.
OmoBarca said the challenges facing the education sector require a coordinated approach involving governments at all levels, education stakeholders, parents, communities, and the private sector.
He stressed that investment in education should not be measured only by the number of schools constructed but also by the quality of teaching, the welfare of educators, and the learning outcomes of students.
According to him, a society that neglects its teachers risks compromising the future of its children and weakening the foundation upon which national development depends.
He also urged policymakers to place education at the centre of national development planning, arguing that a well-educated population is essential for economic productivity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible citizenship.
While congratulating teachers on the occasion, OmoBarca encouraged them to remain committed to their profession and continue to inspire their students despite the difficulties they may encounter.
He assured teachers and other education stakeholders in Ajeromi Ifelodun that their contribution to the development of the constituency is recognised and appreciated.
He said the future of Nigeria depends largely on the quality of education provided to its younger generation and, consequently, on the capacity of teachers to effectively perform their responsibilities.
OmoBarca further called on governments to ensure that teachers receive the recognition and support commensurate with the importance of their profession.
He said celebrating teachers should go beyond speeches and ceremonies, stressing that meaningful appreciation must be reflected in policies that improve their welfare, professional status, and working environment.
As Nigeria commemorates World Teachers’ Day, he urges Nigerians to recognise the millions of teachers whose daily efforts continue to shape the country’s future.
He said teachers deserve appreciation not only for imparting academic knowledge but also for helping young Nigerians develop discipline, values, confidence, and the skills required to contribute meaningfully to society.
OmoBarca concluded by congratulating teachers in Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency and across Nigeria, wishing them greater professional fulfilment and success in their service to the nation.
He reaffirmed that strengthening the teaching profession is fundamental to building an educated, skilled, and productive population capable of driving Nigeria’s development.
“Happy World Teachers’ Day 2026 to our dedicated teachers in Ajeromi Ifelodun and across Nigeria. Your service to our children and our nation is invaluable. We appreciate your sacrifices, your commitment, and your enduring contribution to national development,” he said.
