Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, has approved 7 billion naira for the payment of 25% of outstanding arrears of teachers in Public Primary Schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The announcement was made by Dr. Hayyo during a visit to the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, where he also revealed that the FCT will pay 40% of the outstanding arrears while the Area Councils will pay 60%. The Administration has directed the Area Councils to pay within three months, and the money will be deducted at the source and sent to them. This measure is aimed at ensuring that teachers can return to the classrooms promptly.

Dr. Hayyo emphasized the importance of FCTUBEB in providing access to education for every school-age child in the Territory. He acknowledged the shortage of teachers in the Board's over 1000 schools and stated that the Administration is working to address this issue. Dr. Hayyo also highlighted the government's focus on capital expenditure and expressed the desire to spend more on recurrent expenditure, which has been a challenge.

The purpose of the visit was to explore collaboration between the Secretariat and the Board to achieve their mandates. Dr. Hayyo commended the Board for its efforts and promised to use available resources for infrastructural development. He also mentioned plans for the take-off of Karshi Model School and assured that Karshi and Korea Model schools would be given priority to showcase FCT globally and ensure that local schools meet international standards.

Dr. Hayyo disclosed that when the FCT Minister approves the recruitment of teachers, the method will be based on Area Councils to address the issue of teacher shortages and complaints of insecurity in some schools. The Acting Executive Chairman of FCTUBEB, Dr. Alhassan Sule, outlined the Board's achievements and challenges, including the need for more teachers and infrastructure development.

In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Jacqueline Amasike expressed gratitude for the visit, stating that it boosted the morale of the management staff. She assured the Secretary of the Board's commitment to the welfare of staff and the smooth running of FCTUBEB schools. The visit concluded with the presentation of a plaque to the Secretary in honor of his impact on the Board.

Overall, the visit and its outcomes reflect a commitment to improving education standards and addressing the challenges faced by teachers and schools in the FCT. It is hoped that these efforts will lead to tangible improvements in the education sector and benefit both teachers and students in the FCT.

Reported by:
Oyelola S. Stephen, Deputy Director/Head of EMIS & Research, DPPRS and
Hussaini Musa, CEO/HOU EMIS, DPPRS
25th January, 2024