TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked the national assembly to pass a bill seeking to increase the retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years.

The president is also seeking to extend the duration of service for the teachers in the country from 35 to 40 years.

His request on the executive bill entitled, ‘Harmonised retirement age for teachers in Nigeria bill, 2021’, was read at Wednesday’s plenary session by Senate President Ahmad Lawan.

He said: “Pursuant to section 58 (8) (2) of the 1999 constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as amended, I forward herewith the harmonised retirement age for teachers in Nigeria bill, 2021, for consideration by the senate.

“The harmonised retirement age for teachers in Nigeria, 2021, seeks to increase the retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years and also increase the possible years of service from 35 to 40 years.

“While appreciating your usual expeditious consideration of this submission, please accept, distinguished senate president, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

In January, the federal executive council (FEC) approved the harmonised retirement age for teachers bill and resolved to send it to the national assembly.

Adamu Adamu, minister of education, had said the bill will give legal backing to the federal government’s plans to enhance the teaching profession in the country.

“So, all the promises the president made and all the approvals that he has given me will now begin to put into effect because this is a legal backing that is required for it,” he had said.