Kano state Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has increased the length of service for teachers in the state from 35 years to 40 years

This has moved retirement age from 60 years to 65 years, for all categories of teachers in the state.

Ganduje disclosed this during the Nigeria Labour  Congress (NLC) Award Night, as part of activities marking this year’s workers’ day celebration, held at the Open Theatre, Government House, Kano, on Saturday, assuring that all the policies would be sustained.

“The length of service for our teachers has been 35 years, I am glad to inform this gathering that, we have now increased the duration to 40 years “.

“You are all aware that federal government has made a pronouncement by increasing the retirement age and the length of service of teachers serving under federal government. So we don’t want teachers in Kano state to be left behind,” emphasized Ganduje.

He said the gesture was to motivate and promote teachers commitment  to their duties.

He made it categorically clear that, all teachers from primary to secondary schools up to tertiary institutions, would benefit from the new development, adding that, “…this is an innovation that we cherish and it will be sustained.”

“Our teachers are our fathers. They are the backbone of sustainable development. Because without education there is no development. Then if we are to sustain our system of education, then their welfare is absolutely necessary.”

“You could recall some two or three years back, we promoted our teachers and paid them increased salary for their promotion. Which affected the payment of our monthly salaries with over N500m. That is unprecedented.”said Ganduje.

The Chairman of the Kano State Branch of NLC, Comrade Kabiru Ado Minjibir, commended the state governor but like Oliver Twist presented more request to the state government.

“Review for retirement age for civil servants in the state and local governments services. Like what was done to teachers, in their own category. This action will equally reduce the massive increase or pensioners with another 5 years. Thereby giving an opportunity for State Pension Fund to offset its outstanding liabilities.”

VON