Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the Federal Government over what he described as inadequate attention to the welfare of Nigerian teachers, saying national appreciation of educators must be matched with practical support.

Atiku said the rising cost of food, transportation, rent and electricity was placing increasing pressure on teachers and making it difficult for many of them to meet their family needs while carrying out their responsibilities. He spoke in a message marking the 2026 World Teachers’ Day.

According to Leadership, Atiku argued that government recognition of teachers should extend beyond annual tributes, insisting that better working conditions and economic policies were needed to make the profession more sustainable. He also challenged President Bola Tinubu over what he described as a lack of connection with the experiences of teachers, questioning whether the President could identify any of his former teachers or classmates.

The ADC candidate, who founded the American University of Nigeria, also drew from his personal experience, recalling teachers who taught him in Jada and helped shape his early education. He said an ADC administration would pursue measures aimed at reducing the cost of living, improving employment opportunities and giving teachers and other workers a more dignified standard of living.

Separately, the ADC Presidential Campaign Council said teachers remained central to Nigeria’s development but were working under difficult conditions. Its Director of Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, cited concerns over remuneration, training, healthcare, housing and school infrastructure, and said an ADC government would prioritise improved salaries and allowances, health insurance, affordable housing and continuous professional development for teachers.