The Ekiti State Government has presented promotion letters to more than 5,000 primary school teachers, including 231 headteachers elevated to Grade Level 16

This is the first time in the history of the State that head teachers of public primary schools would be promoted to Grade level 16

The promotions, announced at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Headquarters in Ado Ekiti, fulfilled a pledge by Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to elevate primary school headteachers to the same grade level as their counterparts in the core civil service.

Presenting the letters to the beneficiaries, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Prof. Femi Akinwumi, described the exercise as a significant milestone in the state’s education sector and a reflection of the administration’s commitment to improving the quality of basic education.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the education sector,” Prof. Akinwumi said. “This monumental event underscores the unwavering commitment of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration to enhancing the quality of education in Ekiti State.”

He said the promotions were in recognition of the teachers’ dedication and outstanding service, noting that the move demonstrated the government’s resolve to reward excellence in the teaching profession.

Congratulating the newly promoted teachers, Prof. Akinwumi urged them to maintain high standards of professionalism and remain committed to their responsibilities in the classroom.

He described education as a key legacy for which Ekiti State is widely known and said the government would continue to strengthen the sector by motivating educators and improving their welfare.

The SUBEB chairman also praised Gov. Oyebanji for fulfilling his promise to elevate primary school teachers to Grade Level 16, noting that the promotion of 231 headteachers marked the first time in the state’s public service history that primary school administrators had reached that level.

He added that Ekiti State had recorded one of the lowest rates of out-of-school children in Nigeria, attributing the achievement to government investments in learning infrastructure, teacher development and an enabling environment for education.

According to him, the promotions are expected to boost morale among teachers and contribute to improved academic outcomes in primary schools across the state.

Also speaking at the event, the SUBEB Permanent Secretary, Mr. Michael Omolayo, congratulated the teachers and urged them to justify the gesture through improved performance and dedication.

“To whom much is given, much is required,” he said, encouraging the beneficiaries to redouble their efforts in delivering quality basic education.

Mr. Omolayo also commended Gov. Oyebanji for prioritizing the education sector and implementing policies aimed at improving teachers’ welfare and professional standing.

Some of the teachers who received their promotion letters expressed gratitude to the governor, describing the gesture as unprecedented. They pledged to remain committed to their duties and to continue delivering quality education to pupils across the state.