Epe (Nigeria): Ms Surah Animashaun, Chairman of the Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, says governments at all levels must learn to reward and appreciate their teachers.
Animashaun said the council celebrates its teachers because they remain invaluable architects of human development, whose impacts transcend generations.
She made this statement on Sunday in Epe, commemorating the 2025 World Teachers’ Day.
According to her, the reward of teachers is not only in heaven but here on earth.
“Here in Epe, we reward our teachers, especially the outstanding ones, in appreciation of their sacrifices to humanity and for our children.
“There is no reward big enough for teachers. They mould the society and there is a need to improve their welfare,” she said.
She said the 2025 theme, “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession,” called for a renewed spirit of partnership, shared growth, and collective excellence within the teaching community.
She noted that every great mind, visionary leader, and innovator who dared to change the world stood on the foundation laid by teachers.
“You are the silent achievers, the unseen builders of dreams, and the torchbearers of enlightenment whose dedication fuels the progress of nations,” she said.
Animashaun commended teachers for their commitment to nation-building and acknowledged their resilience in shaping future leaders, despite the numerous challenges in the education sector.
“Teachers are more than educators; they are moulders of character, nurturers of ambition, and catalysts of transformation.
“Their classrooms are laboratories of tomorrow’s greatness, and their influence stretches far beyond walls and blackboards,” she said.
The council chairman reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to prioritising education as the bedrock of sustainable development, as well as the welfare of teachers.
She said that the council would continue to support teachers through enhanced welfare packages, continuous professional development, and strategic policies that empowered educators to excel.
She disclosed plans to strengthen collaboration between schools, local authorities, and community stakeholders to improve teaching conditions and create an environment where teachers could thrive.
“We must ensure that those who shape destinies are not forgotten but rewarded both on earth and in heaven,” she said.
Animashaun extended heartfelt appreciation to all educators across Epe, Lagos State, and Nigeria for their steadfastness, patience, and unrelenting passion for impacting lives.
She described teachers as the unsung heroes of progress whose influence reverberated through time.
“Your work may not always make the headlines, but your legacy lives in every child you teach, every dream you nurture, and every nation you help build,” she added.
