From Suleiman Abubakar
In a decisive move to address concerns among primary school teachers, the National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Aminu Mu'azu Maifata, has reassured educators that their jobs are secure despite the recent financial autonomy granted to local governments by the Supreme Court.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, in Abuja, Maifata emphasized that the prompt and regular payment of salaries, pensions, as well as the training and retraining of teachers, remain top priorities.
Maifata, who also serves as the Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area in Nasarawa State, led a delegation of ALGON executives to explore potential collaborations with the Federal Ministry of Education, particularly in the area of basic education.
He expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of primary education across Nigeria and highlighted the need to restore its lost glory in all 774 local government areas.
During the meeting, Maifata stressed the importance of federal support for training initiatives, noting that quality education hinges on the development of well-qualified teachers.
He also advocated for the inclusion of local government chairmen in the policy-making process for basic education, urging the Ministry to conduct thorough needs assessments to ensure effective planning and implementation of school projects.
In response, Dr. Sununu commended Maifata's commitment and assured that the Ministry is ready to collaborate with ALGON.
He affirmed that the inauguration of the Local Government Financial Autonomy Implementation Committee by the federal government reflects President Tinubu's dedication to revitalizing the third tier of government, and promised that new programs and projects aimed at improving basic education are in the pipeline.
