*Endorse governor for second tenure
Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt
Teachers in Rivers State have expressed their support for the closure of illegal schools in the state by Governor Nyesom Wike.
They also endorsed Wike for a second term, saying that they are satisfied with the achievements of the governor in the education sector.
Speaking on behalf of teachers in Rivers State at the Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday, Chairman of the Rivers State Wing of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUJ), Comrade Nkpogone Lucky, decried the negative impact of illegal schools on the educational development of the state.
“We commend the governor for closing down illegal schools in the state. These illegal schools have negative impact on our education “, he said. He also said come 2019, the teachers would massively vote Wike.
He said: “Teachers have endorsed you for re-election. We are not politicians, but we shall deliver our votes enmasse for you.
“Come 2019, we want to see you continue as governor of Rivers State. We want you to continue your good works for the stateâ€.
He commended the governor for his regular payment of teachers’ salaries and placement of the welfare of teachers on priority list.
The Rivers NUT Chairman urged the governor to ensure the payment of some teachers omitted from the salary spreadsheet for February/March 2016. He further urged the governor to approve the implementation of approved verified promotion for teachers.
The teachers assured Wike of their continued support for his administration, as it continues to reposition the education sector.
Responding, Governor Wike assured the NUT that his administration will continue to invest in the massive development of infrastructure in the education sector.
He added that his administration would introduce incentives and allowances for teachers in rural areas.
The governor stated that the issue of some teachers omitted from the salary spreadsheet for February and March 2016 will be addressed.
He added that the promotion for teachers that has been verified will be handled by the administration.
Wike called for the review of the revenue sharing formula to create the right environment for state governments to meet their financial obligations.
He wondered why the federal government will negotiate wage increase with workers without the involvement of states.
