The Ayedero of Yorubaland, Honourable Shina Peller, has urged teachers across the country to mold character and cultivate a more responsible generation of leaders by instilling values of accountability, empathy, and vision in their students from the classroom.
Peller made this appeal in response to receiving the Exemplary Leadership and Humanitarian Service Award in Ibadan from the Oyo State Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Celebration.
Peller’s remarks come at a critical time when the need for strong leadership is keenly felt across Nigeria.
He noted that despite the nation’s wealth in natural and human resources, leadership shortcomings have hampered progress.
He further emphasized that by prioritizing character building within the educational system, teachers can lay a strong foundation for the young individuals who will one day lead their communities, states, and the nation.
While expressing his gratitude to the teachers for honoring him, Hon. Peller reminded them that their influence goes beyond textbooks, stressing that they have the power to inspire young minds and shape them into effective, responsible, and selfless leaders for the future.
He wrote: “I’m deeply humbled to receive the Exemplary Leadership and Humanitarian Service Award from the Oyo State Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Celebration in Ibadan.
“This recognition serves as a call to action, reminding us that our country’s leadership deficits hinder progress despite its abundant natural and human capital resources. It’s time we change our perspective on education and its potential to nurture the leaders we desire.
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“As educators, you hold the key to shaping the future. With 150 million youthful minds eager to learn, our nation’s potential is immense. Let’s raise a generation of leaders with integrity by instilling values of accountability, empathy, and vision. Empower them to think critically, solve problems, and serve selflessly.
“The event was graced by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, along with other dignitaries such as the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, and the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, who were also honored alongside me.
“During this memorable ceremony, Governor Makinde also commissioned a newly built block of 10 classrooms at the NUT Model School in Ibadan, a testament to the Oyo State Government’s commitment to improving educational facilities.
“As a society, let’s advocate for better welfare and working conditions for teachers. Thank you, NUT, for this honor. Together, let’s shape a brighter future.”
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