EFCC Pays ₦1.05 Billion to 659 Disengaged Teachers as Ondo Absorbs 637 New Teachers
In a major development for Nigerian teachers, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over ₦1,054,919,532.61 to 659 disengaged teachers in Adamawa State. The development comes alongside the absorption of 637 new teachers in Ondo State and renewed concerns over unpaid promotion arrears affecting thousands of teachers.
EFCC Recovers ₦1.05 Billion for 659 Adamawa Teachers
The EFCC has handed over a total of ₦1,054,919,532.61 to 659 disengaged teachers of the Adamawa State Post-Primary Schools Management Board.
The teachers were employed in 2012 and reportedly served for 29 months before they were disengaged. Following a petition submitted in 2024 and an order from the National Industrial Court, the EFCC recovered the funds through its Gombe Zonal Directorate.
The recovery represents a significant development for the affected teachers, who had been seeking payment of their outstanding entitlements.
Ondo State Absorbs 637 Newly Recruited Teachers
Meanwhile, in Ondo State, no fewer than 637 newly absorbed teachers have received their employment letters from the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).
The Board's Chairman, Princess Olufunmilayo Ademulegun-Brown, explained that the teachers were affected by administrative lapses during the 2025 recruitment exercise.
She urged the newly absorbed teachers to demonstrate discipline, dedication and commitment to their responsibilities. She also acknowledged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for fulfilling his promise to absorb qualified applicants affected by the recruitment issues.
28,000 Teachers Await Promotion Arrears
In another development, the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has warned of possible industrial tension over unpaid promotion arrears affecting approximately 28,000 teachers.
NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba expressed disappointment over the government's failure to meet the payment deadlines of September 30, October 15 and October 30, 2026.
The association has urged the government to take the November 16 deadline seriously and address the outstanding payments to prevent further tension within the education sector.
Former Senate President Calls for More Investment in Teachers
Also, former Senate President Pius Anyim has called for greater recognition and investment in teachers, describing teacher education as critical infrastructure for human capital development.
His position highlights the importance of investing in teachers through better support, professional development and policies that strengthen the education system.
Conclusion
These developments highlight several important issues affecting Nigerian teachers, including unpaid entitlements, recruitment challenges, promotion arrears and the need for greater investment in education.
While the EFCC's recovery for Adamawa teachers and Ondo State's absorption of 637 teachers are positive developments, the outstanding promotion arrears remain a concern for thousands of educators.
What is your opinion about these developments? Should Nigerian governments prioritise the welfare and timely payment of teachers? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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