First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Celebrates Teachers, Calls for Action on Global Teacher Shortage

The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has joined the global community in celebrating educators on the occasion of World Teachers’ Day 2025, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to tackle the global teacher shortage.

In a statement issued on Sunday by her media office, Senator Tinubu described teachers as “true heroes, shaping minds, nurturing dreams, and guiding generations.” She praised their dedication, resilience, and impact in molding future leaders despite challenges such as limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and increasing classroom demands.

“Teachers are the cornerstone of every thriving society,” the First Lady said. “They inspire curiosity, instill discipline, and empower young people with the knowledge and values needed to build a better world. On this special day, I salute every teacher in Nigeria and across the world for their selfless service and unwavering commitment.”

Senator Tinubu noted that this year’s global theme — focused on addressing the persistent shortage of qualified teachers — underscores the urgent need for governments and stakeholders to invest more in education, teacher welfare, and professional development.

She expressed concern that the declining number of teachers globally poses a serious threat to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on quality education, particularly in developing nations where classrooms are overcrowded and teachers overworked.

“As we celebrate our teachers, let us also renew our commitment to supporting them,” she added. “Governments, communities, and private organizations must come together to ensure that teaching becomes a respected, well-supported, and rewarding profession. Our children deserve the best, and that begins with empowering those who teach them.”

The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to education through her Renewed Hope Initiative, which has continued to support teacher training, scholarship programs, and the creation of conducive learning environments, especially for girls and children in underserved communities.

World Teachers’ Day, celebrated annually on October 5, highlights the vital role of teachers in transforming education and shaping societies. This year’s commemoration focuses on the theme “The Teachers We Need for the Education We Want: The Global Imperative to Reverse the Teacher Shortage.”