By Milcah Tanimu

No fewer than 600 teachers under the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Defence, who benefited from the Federal Government’s service elongation package for teachers, are reportedly owed 23 months’ salaries. The service elongation for teachers, introduced during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, increased the retirement age and service years for teachers. The beneficiaries, including those in unity schools, military schools, and paramilitary institutions, were directed to continue in service ahead of the presidential assent by Buhari.

However, investigations reveal that these teachers, despite remaining in service since January 2021, were not paid salaries until November 2022, with arrears still being withheld. Some teachers claim their arrears reflect on their payslips but have not been paid. The affected teachers have raised concerns and written letters to the Ministry of Education seeking intervention.

The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) is reportedly working on the matter, engaging with the ministries involved to address the issue and ensure the teachers are paid. The spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education has not responded to inquiries as of the report’s filing.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence has initiated a verification exercise for all teachers in armed forces schools to aid proper planning and administrative purposes.