Funding Education is Key, not 12-4 System, says NUT

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has stated that the proposed 12-4 system won’t address Nigeria’s poor education standards, stressing that improved funding is the key solution.

NUT President, Mr Audu Amba, made this statement during the Union’s 2025 Solemn Assembly on Thursday in Abuja.

Amba emphasised the need for adequate funding to improve the educational system and working conditions for teachers.

He stressed that the real issue was not the educational system or policy, but the lack of sufficient financial support, which led to prolonged strikes and poor infrastructure.

“Whether it’s 6-3-3-4, 9-3-3, or 12-4, the fundamental issue is funding.

“How committed is the government to funding this system to avoid issues like frequent strikes?” Amba said.

He also advocated for a more inclusive discussion involving stakeholders to help shape a better educational framework.

Supreme news reports that recently, the Minister of Education, Dr Murufu Alaus, proposed the 12-4 system to replace the 6-3-3-4 model.

He described the dire state of infrastructure in many schools, with teachers and students using outdated facilities and lacking basic resources.

“Teachers in public schools often have to buy their own materials, such as chalk, to carry out their duties.”

He reiterated that the union was advocating for better funding and infrastructure to improve the overall quality of education and working conditions for teachers.

During the assembly, Amba also explained that the prayer session aimed to seek divine guidance and protection for teachers, the Union, and the government in 2025.

He emphasised the need for collective commitment to God’s guidance in navigating the challenges ahead.

Earlier, the clerics, in their sermons, urged teachers to be truthful and more committed to their profession, remembering that they are the teachers of all other professions.

Imam Muhammad Bin’Uthman outlined the qualities expected of teachers, including trustworthiness, thoroughness, enthusiasm, agility, cheerfulness, and effectiveness.

He encouraged teachers to be reliable, resourceful, and maintain their dignity and respectability.

He also called on governments to support teachers financially and recognise their importance in society.

Rev. Emmanuel Nama emphasised the essential role of teachers, who were often overlooked and underappreciated.

He encouraged them to stay committed to their calling, in spite of low pay, as they shape future leaders.

He described teaching as a blessed work and a gift of the Holy Spirit, urging teachers to believe in their importance.

Nama highlighted the teacher’s role in educating and correcting, particularly in a changing world, and stressed the importance of teaching children to fear God and live according to His commandments.

Both religious leaders prayed for God’s blessings on the teachers and the NUT leadership.