The Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, representing Atiba State Constituency, Hon. Joseph Gbenga Oyekola has moved a motion urging the adoption and implementation of the recently enacted Harmonized Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022.
The lawmaker appealed for the adoption of a federal government position in Oyo State on Tuesday during the house plenary session.
The Motion was titled; Need For Adoption And Implementation Of The New Sixty Five (65) Years Retirement Age And Forty (40) Years Length of Service For Teachers Of Oyo State”
In the Motion, Hon Gbenga Oyekola emphasizes the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the nation’s educational system and aligns with global recommendations.
Highlighting the significance of quality education, the Oyo assembly Chief Whip draws attention to the 2020 National Committee on Revitalizing the Teaching Profession initiated by President Muhammad Buhari. The subsequent enactment of the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022, underscores the federal commitment to investing in teachers for improved service delivery.
While Seven states, including Ondo, Imo, and Kano, have promptly embraced the directive to harmonize retirement age and service years, Hon. Gbenga Joseph Oyekola urges Oyo State to follow suit.
The motion which was seconded by Hon. Saminu Ridwan representing Atisbo/Saki-East state Constituency, emphasizes that the new retirement age stipulates compulsory retirement at 65 or after 40 years of pensionable service, superseding any conflicting regulations.
Expressing concern over potential delays, the motion calls upon Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to expedite the process of adopting the federal directive. It emphasizes that Oyo, known for its “Pace Setting” initiatives, should not lag in championing this crucial educational reform.
The Assembly resolves to prompt the Executive Arm to engage with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Chapter. The objective is to address specific areas in the Harmonized Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022, ensuring a seamless adoption that aligns with the state’s unique circumstances. This move aims to set in motion the implementation of the new retirement age and service length, reflecting Oyo State’s commitment to educational advancement.
