society
Honouring the Hands That Shape the Future: A Tribute to Teachers and the Legacy of Mrs. Anna Chinenye Udunze
Honouring the Hands That Shape the Future: A Tribute to Teachers and the Legacy of Mrs. Anna Chinenye Udunze
By Blaise Udunze
Every year on October 5, the world pauses to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, which is a day to honour the men and women whose quiet labour builds the foundations of every great society. They are the custodians of knowledge, the gardeners of potential, and the silent architects of transformation. Long before the first brick of any nation’s progress is laid, teachers have already done their work by nurturing minds, refining values, and lighting the path of purpose.
In every thriving society, progress rests on the shoulders of its teachers. They shape the minds that build nations, innovate solutions, and drive economies. Yet, in Nigeria, these same nation-builders have become the forgotten heroes of development, with a neglected sector battling shortages, poor welfare, and dwindling morale. The implications of this systemic neglect go far beyond the walls of our schools; it strikes at the heart of the nation’s social and economic well-being.
Across the country, classrooms overflow while teachers dwindle. From urban schools in Lagos to rural communities across the country, the teacher-to-student ratio grows alarmingly worse. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommends one teacher for every 35 pupils, yet Nigeria’s classrooms often see a single teacher struggling to manage 80 to 100 children. Some states have not recruited new teachers in years, even as retirements and resignations thin the ranks.
This crisis is not just about numbers; it is about neglect. Many teachers go months without salaries. Promotions stagnate for years. Training opportunities are rare or nonexistent. In an age where education systems are evolving globally, Nigerian teachers remain under-equipped, underpaid, and undervalued.
Worse still, the nation is now losing many of its finest educators to the brain drain sweeping across critical sectors. In search of better welfare, security, and dignity, a growing number of Nigerian teachers are migrating to countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. These are nations that understand the value of quality education and reward it accordingly. These countries are actively recruiting teachers from Africa, offering them decent pay, housing, and professional development opportunities that remain elusive back home.
The exodus is devastating. Every teacher who leaves represents not just a personal loss but also the erosion of institutional memory and mentorship for younger educators.
The result is a hollowing out of the education system, where classrooms are filled with children but starved of skilled instructors. If this trend continues unchecked, Nigeria may soon face a generational void, one where the brightest educators are abroad while those left behind struggle to do more with less.
The consequences are profound. The quality of education continues to decline as overcrowded and poorly resourced classrooms stifle both teachers and pupils. Literacy and numeracy rates fall, while dropout rates soar. Nigeria already bears the burden of having one of the world’s largest populations of out-of-school children, over 10 million.
Beyond academics, the social fabric suffers. Education is not merely an academic exercise; it shapes civic values, tolerance, and productivity. When teachers are absent or ineffective, a generation grows without discipline, moral grounding, or employable skills. The result is evident in the rising wave of youth unemployment, crime, and moral decay. A society that fails to invest in teachers inevitably reaps a harvest of instability and ‘bundles of wahala.’
Economically, the neglect of teachers directly undermines growth. Nations like Japan, Finland, Singapore, and South Korea that thrive well did so by prioritizing education and elevating the teaching profession. In Nigeria, however, policymakers treat education as an afterthought, allocating N1.54 trillion, representing only 7.9 percent of the N19.54 trillion 2024 national budget, to the entire education sector. This figure falls far below the UNESCO-recommended benchmark of 15-20 percent, underscoring how little priority is given to building human capital.
Poorly educated citizens limit innovation and productivity, forcing industries to import expertise that local talent could have supplied if properly nurtured. The vicious cycle continues as poor education leads to weak human capital, which in turn hampers national competitiveness.
To reverse this decline, Nigeria must begin by restoring dignity to the teaching profession. Teachers deserve fair remuneration, timely payment, and continuous training. Recruitment must become a priority to fill the widening gap in public schools. States should adopt deliberate policies to attract bright young minds into teaching through incentives, scholarships, and professional development programs. Investment in digital teaching tools and curriculum reform is equally critical. A 21st-century nation cannot thrive on a 20th-century education model. Beyond policy, society must also renew its respect for teachers by celebrating them not only on World Teachers’ Day but every day, as the moral and intellectual engineers of our nation.
This year’s celebration holds a deeply personal resonance for me. It is a day to not only salute all teachers across the world but also to remember one whose life and service embodied the noblest ideals of the profession in the person of my late mother, Mrs. Anna Chinenye Udunze, a devoted and exemplary teacher who worked with the Lagos State Ministry of Education for 33 years.
For over three decades, she gave her heart and her strength to shaping young minds. Her students, many of whom are now professionals across Nigeria and beyond, remember her not only for her discipline and excellence but also for her compassion, her insistence on doing what is right, and her unwavering belief that education was the surest path to dignity and nation-building. To her, teaching was not just a job; it was a calling, and one she answered with grace, patience, and an undying sense of purpose.
Mrs. Udunze’s classroom was a place of transformation. She believed every child had a spark waiting to be discovered. She spent long hours preparing lessons, mentoring her pupils, and ensuring that even the least promising learner left her class with renewed confidence. Meanwhile, I was also once her student for a term of an academic year! Her legacy endures, not in monuments or titles, but in the countless lives she touched and the values she instilled.
Neglecting teachers is not merely an educational issue; it is a national emergency. When classrooms collapse, the future collapses with them. The strength of any nation lies in the quality of its teachers, for they shape every doctor, engineer, entrepreneur, and leader that society will ever know.
As we celebrate this year’s World Teachers’ Day, let us remember that teachers remain society’s moral compass and developmental backbone. They are the ones who keep the ideals of knowledge, integrity, and hard work alive in generations. Governments and communities owe them more than words of praise. We owe them the dignity, support, and recognition they so richly deserve.
Today, as the world celebrates its educators, I stand proud, proud of all teachers who remain steadfast in their mission and proud of a mother whose legacy continues to inspire. The life of Mrs. Anna Chinenye Udunze is a testament to the truth that while classrooms may be small, their influence stretches far beyond walls into the hearts of generations and the story of nations.
To all teachers, past and present, thank you. You are the hands that shape humanity, the voice that awakens dreams, and the light that no darkness can extinguish.
Blaise, a journalist and PR professional writes from Lagos, can be reached via: [email protected]
Ajadi, Peter Obi, Adeleke, Others Join Makinde at Oyo@50 Thanksgiving Service
The leading gubernatorial aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Sunday joined Governor Seyi Makinde, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, the wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke, and other eminent dignitaries at a Thanksgiving Service marking the seventh day of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Oyo State.
The service, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, drew a large congregation of worshippers, political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders across the state and beyond, underscoring the significance of the golden jubilee celebration.
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Ambassador Ajadi congratulated Governor Makinde, former Governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and other stakeholders for steering the state to its historic milestone, describing the anniversary as a moment for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to progress.
Oyo State at 50 is not just a celebration of years; it is a celebration of the strength, resilience and enduring spirit of our people,” Ajadi said. “I congratulate His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and all stakeholders for sustaining the legacy of excellence, unity and progress that the Pacesetter State represents.”
He praised the people of the state for their resilience over the decades. He acknowledged the collective efforts of past and present leaders who have contributed to Oyo State’s political stability, economic growth and rich cultural heritage since its creation in 1976.
Ajadi, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, noted that the golden jubilee provides an opportunity for both leaders and citizens to critically assess the journey so far and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous future.
“As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we must reflect on where we are coming from, where we are today and where we want to be,” he said. “Oyo State has produced great leaders, intellectuals, professionals and cultural icons.
He also commended the state government for designing a commemorative programme that blends intellectual engagement with the celebration of excellence, stressing that such initiatives help preserve history while inspiring younger generations.
Earlier, Governor Makinde, while addressing the congregation, said that although his tenure would end in May 2027, the team with which he has delivered good governance remains intact and prepared to continue the state’s development trajectory in different capacities.
The governor, who read the second Bible lesson from Matthew 5:1–12, attributed his emergence as governor in 2019 after eight years of political contest to divine grace, describing his administration as a “new beginning” for Oyo State.
“I was the eighth civilian governor of Oyo State, and in the Bible, the number eight signifies a new beginning,” Makinde said. “God has been merciful to us, and we will continue to govern in accordance with His will and guidance for the people of Oyo State.”
He assured residents of continuity in governance, emphasising that while he would exit office at the end of his tenure, members of his team would remain committed to serving the state.
“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde that will go out; the members of the team are there to continue the work for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.
In a goodwill message, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, lauded Makinde’s leadership style and the transformation witnessed in the state under his administration.
Oyo State is a city of knowledge and a city of hope,” Obi said. “I thank Governor Makinde for faithfully serving the people. Nigeria is not a poor country, but a poorly governed one, and what we are seeing in Oyo State is an example of using public resources for public good.”
Dignitaries at the event included the wife of the governor, Her Excellency Engr Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde; wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke; former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and several other government officials, traditional rulers and political leaders.
society
UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning*
*UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning*
The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) proudly announces the appointment of *Honorable Ambassador Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/atlantian* as *Chief of Staff* to the Reigning Monarch, *Emperor Solomon Winning*. The official appointment ceremony was conducted on February 1st, 2026, and marked with the presentation of an Appointment Certificate (UKA 001 -1/2026).
Key Details of the Appointment 👇
– *Hon AMB Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/Atlantian* has been entrusted with the prestigious role of Chief of Staff, serving directly under Emperor Solomon Winning, the sovereign of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
– The appointment signifies a strategic enhancement of the monarch’s administrative and operational capabilities, aligning with the empire’s vision of efficient governance and global humanitarian leadership.
– The certificate of appointment bears the *Royal Seal of the Empire* and the endorsement of *EMP Noblis Solomon Winning*, affirming the legitimacy and authority of the designation.
Role of the Chief of Staff…👇
The Chief of Staff will be responsible for:
1. Managing the day-to-day operations of the monarch’s office.
2. Coordinating diplomatic and strategic initiatives aligned with the empire’s humanitarian and financial objectives.
3. Facilitating communication between the reigning monarch and governmental bodies within the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
Emperor Nobiliis Solomon Winning is the transformative leader of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, driving innovative projects in finance, humanitarian efforts, and global development. His reign focuses on merging traditional monarchical values with modern technological advancements, exemplified by initiatives like the ATC digital currency.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) is a sovereign entity dedicated to fostering global unity, humanitarian progress, and financial innovation. It operates under a regal framework that blends imperial tradition with futuristic economic strategies, including asset-backed digital currencies and sustainable development programs.
_”The appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill as Chief of Staff strengthens our administrative excellence and underscores our commitment to visionary leadership.”_
— *Emperor Solomon Winning*
The United Kingdom of Atlantis looks forward to achieving new milestones in governance and global impact under the stewardship of Emperor Solomon Winning and his esteemed Chief of Staff, Hon AMB Asari St-Hill.
Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year
The Gen CG Musa Support Group has extended its warmest congratulations to its Grand Patron, His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR (Rtd), the Honourable Minister of Defence, following his prestigious designation as the 2025 Man of the Year by OurNigeria News Magazine.
In a statement released to the press and signed by the Director General of the Support Group, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, the Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the group hailed the recognition as a fitting tribute to a leader of exceptional character and accomplishment.
The statement illuminated the distinction of the award, emphasizing that it transcends the formal titles of “General” and “Minister.” It celebrated the core of the man himself—a leader renowned for his profound humility, incredible kindness, and genuine respect for all individuals. “People see the legacy and the title,” the statement noted, “but some of us are lucky to know the man behind it.”
The Support Group underscored that this accolade is a direct acknowledgment of the Minister’s exemplary personal conduct. It is an award not merely for the office he holds, but for the consistent humility he carries into every room and every interaction, a quality that has defined his leadership both in and out of uniform.
The honour also serves as a powerful validation of General Musa’s distinguished and unblemished track record of service to the nation. His decades of dedicated service within the military, which culminated in his ascension to the pinnacle as the Chief of Defence Staff prior to his retirement, are cited as the foundational pillars of his esteemed reputation.
The Gen CG Musa Support Group expressed profound gratitude to OurNigeria News Magazine for its discerning choice, noting that the award serves as a significant source of encouragement for the Honourable Minister. It reaffirms the nation’s appreciation for leadership that blends strength with compassion, strategic vision with unwavering integrity, and lofty achievement with grounded humanity.
This recognition solidifies General Christopher Gwabin Musa’s status not only as a defender of the nation but as a paragon of virtuous leadership, whose influence and example continue to inspire confidence and respect across Nigeria.
About the Gen CG Musa Support Group:
The Gen CG Musa Support Group is a collective dedicated to promoting the ideals and supporting the leadership of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, celebrating their service and contributions to national peace, security, and unity.
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