NUTNiger

30/07/2026

“ *We Teach You, Don’t Cheat Us” to “We Teach You, Don’t Kill Us”:*

*By Comrade Usman Idris*

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has been a strong voice in advocating for the welfare, dignity, and professional recognition of teachers across the country. One of its popular expressions, “We Teach You, Don’t Cheat Us,” captured the long-standing struggle of Nigerian teachers against neglect, poor remuneration, inadequate working conditions, and the undervaluation of the teaching profession.

However, the painful realities of insecurity in Nigeria have transformed this message into a more desperate appeal: “We Teach You, Don’t Kill Us.” This change of words represents more than a slogan; it reflects the fear, frustration, and vulnerability experienced by teachers who are increasingly becoming victims of violence while carrying out their noble responsibility of educating the nation.

Teachers are torchbearers who shape the minds of future leaders. They are responsible for laying the foundation upon which every sector of national development depends.

Yet, while teachers continue to dedicate themselves to building Nigeria’s future, many now face threats to their own survival. In several parts of the country, especially areas affected by banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and communal violence, teachers have become targets of attacks.

Schools that were once symbols of knowledge, hope, and opportunity have increasingly become places of fear. Teachers who should be focused on lesson plans, examinations, and mentoring students are now forced to worry about their personal safety and that of their learners.

“We Teach You, Don’t Cheat Us” is a call by Teachers for better salaries, improved working conditions, career development opportunities, and respect.

But the emergence of “We Teach You, Don’t Kill Us” calls for urgent attention. Before teachers can demand better welfare, they must first be guaranteed the right to live and work safely.

A teacher cannot effectively educate children while living under the shadow of insecurity. A school cannot function properly when teachers are afraid to travel to their workplaces. A nation cannot achieve meaningful development when those responsible for educating the next generation are exposed to constant danger.

The impact of insecurity on education is devastating. When teachers are attacked, kidnapped, or killed, the consequences extend beyond the individual victims.

- Students lose mentors and role models.

- Parents lose confidence in sending their children to school.

- Communities suffer setbacks in literacy and development.

- The education system becomes weakened.

Nigeria often celebrates teachers during occasions such as World Teachers’ Day, acknowledging their contributions with awards and commendations. While recognition is important, teachers need more than awards and applause. They need practical protection.

Security around schools must be strengthened. Rural and vulnerable communities where teachers serve must receive greater attention from security agencies. Teachers working in high-risk areas deserve special protection and support.

The government, communities, and all stakeholders must recognize that protecting teachers is equivalent to protecting the nation's future.

The safety of teachers should not be viewed as the responsibility of government alone. Communities, traditional institutions, parents, and citizens all have roles to play.

A society that respects education must defend those who provide it. The teacher who enters the classroom every day is performing a national service. Attacking a teacher is not only an attack on an individual; it is an attack on knowledge, progress, and the future.

The transformation from “We Teach You, Don’t Cheat Us” to “We Teach You, Don’t Kill Us” is a reflection of changing times. It shows that teachers are no longer only fighting for better conditions; they are fighting for safety and survival.

The message is clear: teachers are willing to continue educating the nation, but they must not be abandoned to insecurity.

Government at all levels must listen to this urgent call. A country that fails to protect its teachers risks compromising the education of its children and the future of generations yet unborn.

Teachers give knowledge, direction, and hope. They deserve fairness. They deserve respect. Above all, they deserve to live.

22/03/2026

NUT NIGER STATE WING FELICITATES WITH MUSLIM UMMAH ON THE OCCASION OF 2026 EID-EL-FITR

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, under the leadership of Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago heartily felicitates with all Muslim teachers, education workers, their families, and the entire Muslim Ummah in Niger State and beyond on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan remains a sacred period of spiritual rebirth, sacrifice, self-discipline, devotion, charity, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah (SWT). The Union notes that the lessons of the holy month, patience, humility, love, tolerance, compassion, and unity must continue to reflect in our daily lives, our workplaces, and our collective engagements as citizens and as members of a noble profession.

The State Chairman urges all members to sustain the virtues and values imbibed during Ramadan, while also using the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding, and collective responsibility towards building a more united and progressive society.

The Union commends teachers across Niger State for their resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the development of education and nation-building.

The Union reassures all members of its continued commitment to the protection of their welfare, dignity, and professional advancement.

As the faithful celebrate this season of joy and thanksgiving, the Union prays that Almighty Allah (SWT) accepts the fasting, prayers, and sacrifices offered during Ramadan, and grants all Muslim faithful and their families peace, joy, sound health, divine favour, abundant blessings, and renewed strength.

The Union also prays for lasting peace, unity, stability, and sustainable development in Niger State and Nigeria as a whole.

Eid Mubarak to all Muslim faithful.

Signed:

Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta State
State Secretary
Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing

12/03/2026

PRESS RELEASE

*NUT NIGER STATE WING MOURNS THE PASSING OF HAJIYA HAFSAT ABDULKAREEM LAFENE.*

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, receives with profound sadness the news of the passing of Hajya Hafsat Abdulkareem Lafene, beloved mother of the Niger State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and President of NULGE, Comrade Abdulkareem Idrees Lafene.

On behalf of the State Executive Council and the entire teachers of Niger State, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Comrade Lafene, the entire Lafene family, the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) over this painful loss.

The Union notes that the death of a beloved mother is a profound loss not only to the immediate family but also to all who were touched by her life and virtues. We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgives her shortcomings, accepts her good deeds, and grants her Aljannatul Firdaus.

May Allah also grant Comrade Lafene, the entire family, and all loved ones the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.

Signed:
*Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago*
State chairman
NUT Niger State Wing

12/03/2026

*PRESS RELEASE*

*NUT Niger State Wing Urges Teachers to Participate Fully in the Education Personnel Management Information System (EPMIS) Registration*

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, wishes to inform and strongly urge all teachers and education personnel across the state to promptly complete the ongoing Education Personnel Management Information System (EPMIS) initiated by the state government.

The Education Personnel Management Information System (EPMIS) is a digital platform created by a public sector consultant engaged by the Niger State Government to conduct a comprehensive audit of all teachers and non-academic staff across the twenty-five (25) Local Government Areas of Niger State.

The initiative is part of the state government’s efforts to restructure and modernize the management of education personnel, ensure accurate and reliable staff records, eliminate irregularities in the system, and promote transparency in the administration of the education sector.

The project is also designed to revolutionize education workforce management, improve teacher welfare, and strengthen the foundation of a more effective and sound education system in Niger State.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers therefore strongly advises all teachers and non-academic staff to take this exercise seriously by filling out and submitting the required information on the EPMIS web portal link: epmis.tensng.com within the stipulated time.

Members are hereby informed that failure to complete the required form may result in serious consequences, including possible disengagement from service by the state government, as the exercise is intended to verify and authenticate the status of all personnel within the education sector.

The Union therefore calls on all teachers to cooperate fully with the process and ensure that the information provided is accurate and timely.

The NUT Niger State Wing remains committed to protecting the welfare and professional interests of teachers while supporting policies and reforms that will strengthen the education sector in the state.

Signed:
*Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago*
State Chairman
Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT)
Niger State Wing

*Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta*
State Secretary, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing.
10/3/2026

A secure online portal for Academics and Non-Academic Staff in Niger State under the Transforming Education in Niger State (TENS II) Programme.

20/01/2026

PRESS RELEASE

NUT NIGER STATE WING COMMENDS FARMER TEACHER GOVERNOR UMARU MOHAMMED BAGO ON THE OFFICIAL GAZETTE AND APPROVAL FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF KEY TEACHER-FRIENDLY POLICIES

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, warmly commends the Niger State Government for the official gazetting and implementation of landmark policies aimed at improving teachers’ welfare and strengthening the education sector in the state.

Central to these developments is the approval for implementation of the new retirement age for teachers, as earlier announced by His Excellency, the Farmer Teacher Governor of Niger State, Umaru Mohammed Bago, during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day Celebration. The policy, now backed by official government correspondence, prescribes a retirement age of 65 years of age or 40 years of pensionable service, whichever comes first, for qualified teachers in Niger State.

In addition to this milestone achievement, the Governor has also approved the conditional return of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), to be supervised by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, as well as the organization of a retreat for primary and secondary school teachers due for promotion to Grade Level 17. These complementary approvals further underscore the administration’s holistic approach to educational reform, teachers' motivation, and effective school governance.

The NUT Niger State Wing views these approvals as a landmark achievement and a clear demonstration of his excellency's unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity, and professional advancement of teachers.

The Union believes that by retaining experienced and competent educators in the classroom for longer periods, the policy will strengthen institutional memory, enhance mentoring, and improve overall quality of education delivery across the state.

The Union assures the Niger State Government of its unwavering support and cooperation in the implementation of these policies and calls on all beneficiaries to demonstrate renewed commitment, discipline, and dedication to duty.

The NUT Niger State Wing once again expresses its profound appreciation to His Excellency, Hon. Umaru Mohammed Bago, for translating promises into concrete action and for setting enduring milestones in the advancement of teachers’ welfare and educational development in Niger State.

Signed:

Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago
State chairman

Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta
State secretary

20/1/2026

20/01/2026

06/01/2026

*Condolence Message from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing*

The leadership and entire members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, mourn the passing of Comrade Abdulmalik Nuhu, which occurred on Monday, 5th January 2026.

Comrade Abdulmalik Nuhu was a pioneer and pillar of our union, having served meritoriously as the Pioneer State Secretary of the NUT Niger State Wing from 1979 to 1990. His selfless service, dedication to the welfare of teachers, and commitment to building a strong and united union laid a solid foundation upon which the NUT in Niger State continues to stand.

He was a disciplined administrator, a man of principle, and a devoted unionist whose contributions to the growth and stability of the NUT will remain indelible in our history.

On behalf of the NUT Niger State Wing, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and associates. We pray that Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, rewards his good deeds, and grants him Jannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant his family and the entire NUT family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Signed
*Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta*
State secretary
NUT Niger State wing

30/12/2025

*FOLLOW-UP REJOINDER BY THE NIGERIA UNION OF TEACHERS (NUT), NIGER STATE WING ON THE ASSUSS “Clarification on Legal Rights, Unity, and Complementary Roles in the Education Sector”

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, has carefully studied the recent public statement credited to Comrade Ibrahim Lemu of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Niger State Chapter, which was circulated via social media. While we appreciate the conciliatory tone adopted in parts of the statement, it is imperative to correct fundamental misrepresentations, contextual omissions, and legal overreach that relate specifically to Niger State.
Our response is guided by facts, documented government decisions, and the need to protect industrial harmony within the education sector

1. *CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS VS. GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION.*

NUT does not dispute Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution nor ILO Conventions 87 and 98 cited by ASUSS. These provisions guarantee freedom of association. However, freedom of association is fundamentally different from recognition for collective bargaining, check-off dues, or engagement with government as a trade union.

ASUSS continues to conflate existence with recognition. This is misleading.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees freedom of association, but recognition by the relevant authorities for industrial relations, payroll deductions, and official engagement remains the prerogative of the government guided by law, policy, and administrative instruments.

2. *CLEAR AND DOCUMENTED DERECOGNITION OF ASUSS IN NIGER STATE*

Contrary to ASUSS’ sweeping claims, the position of the Niger State Government and relevant authorities is unambiguous and well-documented:

i. On December 1, 2003, the Niger State Government made a special official announcement recognizing only the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) as the sole umbrella body for teachers in the State, both primary and post-primary.

ii. In July 2010 a formal correspondence from the Office of the Head of Service, Niger State, clearly acknowledged that ASUSS is not a registered or recognized trade union in the State.

iii. On 21st July 2010 the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Niger State Office, formally derecognised ASUSS for trade union activities within Niger State.

iv. On 13th July 2017 the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), Abuja Judicial Division, presided over by Hon. Justice E.N. Agbakoba, discontinued and struck out the suit filed by ASUSS Niger State Chapter.
This decision effectively left ASUSS without any subsisting judicial backing in Niger State.

v. On the 7th May 2021 the Office of the Head of Service, Niger State, reaffirmed its earlier position, restating that ASUSS is not legally recognized as a trade union by relevant authorities in the State.
These are official records not opinions.

3. *SUPREME COURT POSITION DOES NOT CONFER VICTORY ON ASUSS*

ASUSS’s reference to court processes is selective.

On 15th January 2021, the Supreme Court of Nigeria did not declare ASUSS victorious over NUT. Rather, it ruled that the dispute between NUT (National) and ASUSS be remitted to the Court of Appeal for rehearing before a new panel of Justices.

This means clearly:
There is no final judgment in favour of ASUSS.
There is no subsisting Supreme Court pronouncement granting ASUSS recognition.

4. *COERCIVE “CONSENT AND MANDATE” FORMS ARE UNACCEPTABLE*

While ASUSS denies coercion, the facts on the ground suggest otherwise.

The printed form titled “Consent, Mandate and Membership Registration Form”, which purports to:

Mandating automatic deduction of levies/dues from salaries raises serious legal and ethical concerns.

Under Section 12(4) of the Trade Unions Act, check-off dues can only be deducted after lawful recognition of the union by the government.

Given that ASUSS is derecognised in Niger State, any attempt to obtain blanket mandates for salary deductions is legally untenable and potentially exposes teachers and government officials to avoidable complications.

5. *NUT LEADERSHIP IS INCLUSIVE—PRIMARY AND SECONDARY TEACHERS ARE REPRESENTED*

It is imperative to state that:

The current NUT leadership at the State and Local Government levels includes both primary and secondary school teachers.

Secondary school teachers actively contest, win, and occupy strategic positions within NUT.

Decisions affecting teachers are taken through structured representative meetings where secondary teachers are adequately present.

6. *UNITY IS NOT ACHIEVED THROUGH PARALLEL STRUCTURES*

NUT does not oppose professional associations or platforms for discourse. However, parallel unionism under the guise of “complementarity”, especially where the association lacks recognition, only breeds confusion, weakens collective bargaining, and threatens industrial harmony.

Unity is strengthened through:

Respect for established legal frameworks

Engagement through recognized channels

Avoidance of actions that may mislead teachers

*IN CONCLUSION:*

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, reiterates that:
Freedom of association is respected. However, recognition, check-off dues deductions, and collective bargaining in Niger state remain the exclusive preserve of NUT.

ASUSS remains derecognised in Niger State, as affirmed repeatedly by the state government and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

Teachers should not be misled into signing documents with unclear legal consequences.

We call on ASUSS to desist from actions capable of misleading teachers and to channel engagements through lawful, peaceful, and recognized processes.

Teachers’ unity must be built on truth, legality, and mutual respect not selective interpretations of the law.

Signed:
*Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta*
State Secretary
Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT)
Niger State Wing

24/12/2025

- *REJOINDER TO THE PURPORTED “CONSENT, MANDATE AND MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION FORM” CIRCULATED BY ASUSS*

The attention of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, has been drawn to a printed document being circulated by the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), captioned “Consent, Mandate, and Membership Registration Form.”

The said form seeks to compel secondary school teachers to register and grant consent to ASUSS executives to deduct levies or dues directly from their salaries.

The NUT considers this development unacceptable, misleading, and contrary to established labour laws and union practice in Nigeria, and wishes to clarify as follows:

1. *LEGAL POSITION: NUT IS THE ONLY RECOGNISED UMBRELLA UNION FOR TEACHERS IN NIGERIA*.

By law and long-standing industrial practice in Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) is the only recognised trade union for teachers at both primary and post-primary (secondary) school levels.

This position is backed by:

- The Trade Unions Act (Cap T14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria )

- Recognition by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment

- Established judicial and administrative precedent

2. *GOVERNMENT DECISIONS AFFIRMING NUT’S EXCLUSIVE STATUS*

a. Niger State Government Pronouncement – 1st December, 2003

On 1st December, 2003, the Government of Niger State made a special and explicit announcement, officially recognising only the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) as the sole umbrella body for teachers in the state.
This pronouncement remains valid and has never been revoked (attached is the circular)

b. Federal Ministry of Labour & Productivity – 21st July, 2010
Similarly, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Niger State Office, on 21st July, 2010, formally derecognised ASUSS in Niger State, having found its activities inconsistent with existing labour regulations governing teachers’ unionism. (Attached is the said circular)

3. *COERCION AND MISREPRESENTATION ARE UNACCEPTABLE*

The circulation of a form titled “Consent, Mandate and Membership Registration” creates a false impression of legality and compulsion, particularly where teachers are pressured to sign or misled into believing that such registration is voluntary.

Let it be clearly stated:

No teacher is under any obligation to sign such a form

No association has the right to coerce teachers into membership

Consent obtained under pressure, misinformation, or fear is invalid

This action amounts to an attempt to circumvent due process and mislead teachers, and it is strongly condemned.

4. *ILLEGALITY OF SALARY DEDUCTION MANDATE*

The clause in the form given mandates ASUSS executives to deduct levies or dues from teachers’ salaries and is legally defective and unenforceable.

For avoidance of doubt:

Only a recognised trade union is entitled to statutory check-off dues

Salary deductions must be backed by lawful recognition and government approval

Any deduction outside this framework constitutes a violation of workers’ rights

Teachers are therefore advised not to sign any document authorising unlawful salary deductions.

5. *NUT REMAINS THE LEGITIMATE VOICE OF TEACHERS*

The NUT has, over decades, remained the only legitimate platform through which teachers’ welfare, salaries, promotions, allowances, and working conditions are negotiated.

Any attempt to fragment teachers through parallel structures weakens collective bargaining power and ultimately harms the profession.

Unity under NUT is not optional, it is strategic, legal, and necessary.

6. *ADVICE TO SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS*

The NUT Niger State Wing strongly advises all secondary school teachers to:

Refrain from signing the ASUSS registration/mandate form

Report any form of coercion, intimidation, or misinformation

Remain steadfast within the legally recognised union structure

The NUT will not hesitate to engage relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Labour and education stakeholders, to protect the rights of teachers.

Conclusion

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing, reiterates that no association can replace, rival, or undermine the legal status of the NUT as the umbrella union for teachers in Nigeria.

We call on ASUSS to desist from actions capable of causing industrial disharmony and to operate strictly within the bounds of the law.

Teachers’ unity must be built on legality, transparency, and respect for established institutions.

E-Signed:
*Comrade Umaru Musa Kuta*
State Secretary,
Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State Wing

05/11/2025