Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged to commence the payment of the 11-month salary arrears owed State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) teachers, with one month’s arrears to be added to their monthly salaries until the backlog is cleared.
Governor Alia made the commitment on Monday, October 6, 2026, while addressing teachers during the celebration of World Teachers’ Day at IBB Square, Makurdi. He was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making education a priority, noting that his government had taken steps to improve the welfare and working conditions of teachers, including implementation of the harmonised retirement age and the use of an automated payroll system to reduce leakages.
He also highlighted the recruitment of over 9,000 teachers, construction and renovation of more than 400 classrooms, provision of furniture, and professional development and retraining programmes for teachers and learners.
Governor Alia commended teachers for their dedication to shaping the minds and future of children, while also applauding the SUBEB Executive Chairman, Dr. Grace Adagba, for her efforts in driving reforms in basic education.
The Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Basic Education, Mrs. Bibiana Tyoishi, reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for teachers and learners.
In her remarks, Dr. Grace Adagba commended teachers for their resilience and commitment despite challenges, and appreciated the Governor for prioritising basic education through sustained interventions, including school grants and improved teaching and learning facilities.
The celebration, held under the 2026 NUT theme, “Standing with Teachers, 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping Our Future,” featured a colourful march-past, entertainment, presentations and speeches.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers also endorsed Governor Alia for a second term, citing the administration’s efforts towards progress, peace and development in the state.
Kehe Hon,
Information Officer,
Government House Makurdi.
