By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
Members of Yayi Teachers, a support group comprising teachers from public and private schools as well as school proprietors across Ogun State, have reaffirmed their commitment to the governorship aspiration of Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, while calling for improved welfare packages, better working conditions, and comprehensive reforms in the education sector on the 4th June, 2026.
The declaration was made during an interactive meeting held in Abeokuta, where members of the association engaged the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship hopeful on issues affecting teachers and the future of education in Ogun State.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the State Coordinator, Sunday Odunaro, described Yayi Teachers as one of the earliest support groups to align with Senator Adeola's political movement. He noted that members had remained steadfast in their support since 2021 despite uncertainties in the political environment.
According to Odunaro, the association has successfully expanded its presence across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State through sustained grassroots mobilization among teachers and school proprietors.
He appealed to Senator Adeola to provide logistical support to strengthen the group's operations, particularly through the provision of a bus to facilitate coordination and movement across the state. He also assured the Senator of the association's unwavering commitment to promoting his vision and programmes.
Also speaking, Taiwo Olusola from Obafemi Owode Local Government emphasized that the association possesses a robust grassroots structure capable of mobilising support across Ogun State whenever political campaigns officially commence.
During the meeting, members highlighted several challenges confronting teachers and the education sector, including the implementation of the Teachers' Peculiar Allowance, improved welfare packages, salary enhancements, rehabilitation of public schools, teacher safety, student discipline, and reforms to the Contributory Pension Scheme.
Particular concern was raised over the pension scheme and its implications for teachers approaching retirement. Members urged the APC governorship aspirant to prioritise reforms that would guarantee financial security and a dignified retirement for educators.
The women's wing of the association also advocated greater attention to pension-related issues, opportunities for teachers to undertake pilgrimages after years of dedicated service, and policies that would protect educators from harassment and intimidation within school environments.
Responding to the requests, Senator Adeola commended members of Yayi Teachers for their loyalty, dedication, and sacrifices in support of his political movement.
He stated that he had consistently followed the activities of the association and remained impressed by the commitment demonstrated by its members across the state.
"I have been seeing your activities and support. Whenever I come across members of Yayi Teachers at events, I am always impressed. Today's meeting is to appreciate you for believing in me, standing with me, and campaigning for me even before the formal commencement of campaigns," he said.
Adeola assured the teachers that their concerns had been duly noted and pledged that education would occupy a central place in his administration if elected governor.
According to him, meaningful societal development can only be achieved through sustained investment in education and the welfare of teachers.
The Senator further disclosed that his administration would embark on far-reaching educational reforms, including the appointment of separate commissioners for Basic Education and Higher Education to ensure greater focus, efficiency, and improved outcomes in the sector.
He also promised prudent management of the state's resources for the overall benefit of the people and urged members of Yayi Teachers to continue their grassroots mobilisation efforts.
The meeting culminated in a symbolic moment as members of the association decorated Senator Adeola as the Grand Patron of Yayi Teachers, in recognition of his contributions to education, empowerment, and human capital development across Ogun State.
