Abia State starts training for 4,074 new teachers

The Abia State Government kicked off a five-day training workshop for 4,074 new teachers on Tuesday.

Governor Alex Otti opened the workshop in Umuahia. He said teachers are the biggest beneficiaries of changes in the education sector.

Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi, said the training shows the state government’s trust in its ability to promote change.

He called the recruitment part of the “New Abia” spirit of openness and merit. “We recruited 4,074 of the 21,000, who succeeded without knowing anybody,” he stated.

Otti warned the new teachers to protect their jobs because their names were still “written in pencil.” He said, “If you (newly recruited teachers) do well, the environment will notice and acknowledge you.”

A significant step for Abia’s education system

Chigozie Ekeoma, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, said this training is not just a regular orientation but a significant step for the state’s education.

She emphasized that buildings alone cannot change schools without good teachers. “You are the operational foundation of this reform,” she said.

Ekeoma urged the teachers to show dedication, punctuality, and a commitment to continuous improvement. She promised that the ministry would provide the necessary tools, mentorship, and support for their success.

Lydia Onuoha, the Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), said the new teachers came from a strict selection process with Computer-Based Tests and interviews among 36,000 applicants.

Onuoha called teaching a noble and divine calling that should be taken seriously. She told the participants to “dress like teachers,” adding, “Teaching is a noble profession.”

She assured the teachers that ASUBEB is ready to help them advance in basic education. She advised them to pay attention, take notes, and make the most of the five-day training.

In a goodwill message, Christiana Eze, the Director of Secondary Education Management Board, thanked Governor Otti for the chance given to the teachers. She assured the governor that his efforts would yield results, saying they would guide the teachers under their care.

Friday Madu, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), welcomed the new teachers to the profession. He noted that Otti’s administration recruited over 5,000 teachers in 2025 and over 4,000 this year.

Madu assured the teachers of support from both the union and the Association of Principals and Head Teachers. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the five-day workshop will continue until September 12.