By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said his administration has so far spent N3bn for the payment of gratuities, especially to retired primary school teachers in the last four months.
He has also congratulated teachers, describing them as the foundation for a good and well informed society in a message on the occasion of the celebration of World Teachers Day.
Eno’s message released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, Thursday in Uyo celebrated teachers for “the foundation, both in learning and morality that you, our treasured teachers have laid and are still laying for our children.”
The N3bn, the Governor said was necessitated by the backlog of gratuities owed them, especially those in the primary school system, many of whom died after rendering service to the state and nation without getting their retirement benefits.
“We salute you for your sacrifice, passion and patience in molding our future leaders. That’s the reason we have taken your welfare and wellbeing very seriously. To date, we have released over N3bn to pay gratuities especially to retired primary school teachers.
“We are constructing model public primary schools with adequate provisions for teachers to reside within the premises as was the case in the past.
“Education is a critical pillar in the ARISE Agenda and we remain committed to ensuring that we raise great and knowledgeable leaders of tomorrow, who would compete with their peers anywhere in the world.
“As teachers, you are the catalysts in ensuring the realization of this laudable vision. We salute you as you mark World Teachers’ Day today.” The release said.
