The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in next year gubernatorial election in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has promised to begin sweeping reforms in the state’s education sector within his first 100 days in office if elected in 2027.
Alli, in a message to mark the 2026 World Teachers’ Day, said teachers’ welfare would be central to his administration, with measures planned to improve their working conditions, accelerate promotions and address pension and gratuity arrears.
He proposed improved car and housing loans, rural hardship allowances and a teachers’ housing and mortgage scheme, particularly for those working in underserved areas.
The APC candidate also promised to clear backlogs involving promotions, inter-zonal transfers and secondments through a digital tracking system designed to reduce delays.
He said his administration would establish annual State Teachers’ Excellence Awards, with cash prizes, vehicles, laptops and training grants for outstanding teachers, including those serving in rural communities.
Alli further pledged to create a fast-track unit to resolve the pension and gratuity challenges of retired teachers, with clear timelines for settling outstanding arrears.
On professional development, he promised regular training in digital skills, artificial intelligence, inclusive education and subject mastery, alongside specialised recruitment and training for early-childhood and special-needs education.
He also proposed stronger security for schools through perimeter fencing, community security partnerships and rapid-response arrangements, as well as insurance and support packages for teachers affected by insecurity.
Alli said school heads would receive running grants on time through a digital accountability system, stressing that teachers should not be forced to use personal money to provide basic teaching materials.
He also promised accelerated renovation of classrooms, provision of furniture, improved water and sanitation facilities and greater access to solar-powered laboratories and digital learning tools in underserved schools.
The APC candidate said his administration would intensify efforts to bring more children into school, citing an estimated 674,000 out-of-school children in the state.
He proposed an “Oyo Teachers First Compact” with measurable targets covering teachers’ welfare, security, professional development and learning outcomes, to be implemented with education unions and other stakeholders.
“Our teachers deserve more than applause; they deserve a government that respects their sacrifices, protects their lives, rewards excellence and provides the tools required to teach effectively,” Alli said.
He said improving education outcomes would require prioritising teachers and giving them the resources and conditions needed to perform effectively.
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