On this Teachers’ Day, I join millions of people across Nigeria and the world to celebrate our teachers, especially the dedicated men and women who continue to shape the future of Cross River State through knowledge, discipline and service.
Teachers are more than instructors in classrooms. They are nation-builders. Every doctor, lawyer, engineer, journalist, public servant, entrepreneur and leader passed through the hands of a teacher.
In Cross River, our teachers have continued to demonstrate remarkable commitment, often working under challenging circumstances while remaining dedicated to the education and development of our children and young people.
But today, our celebration must go beyond words. We must turn appreciation into action. Government at every level, parents, communities and other stakeholders must work together to improve the welfare of teachers, provide better learning environments, equip schools with the necessary facilities and ensure that teachers receive the training and support they need.
We cannot build a prosperous Cross River while neglecting the people responsible for preparing the next generation to lead it. If we want better doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, leaders and professionals tomorrow, we must invest seriously in the teachers who are moulding them today.
I therefore call on the relevant authorities and all stakeholders in Cross River to make the welfare and professional development of our teachers a continuous priority. Our teachers deserve not only our applause, but also our respect, support and concrete action.
To every teacher across our 18 Local Government Areas, I say thank you for your sacrifices, patience and unwavering commitment to our children.
Your classroom may be small, but the future you are building is enormous.
On behalf of my family and the people I represent, I salute every teacher in Cross River State.
Happy Teachers’ Day!
May your dedication continue to bear fruit in the lives of the generations you are helping to build.
Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD
NDDC Representative, Cross River State
