Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has signed a bill extending the retirement age for teachers employed by the state government to 65 years or 40 years of service, whichever comes first.
Mr Uzodimma signed the bill into law on Wednesday, praising the wisdom of the state House of Assembly in passing the bill.
He said his decision to sign this bill is consistent with his firm commitment to preserving the wealth of experience and knowledge within the education system.
“The Imo State House of Assembly, in its wisdom, has been able to pass the law just tabled with my assent. I am therefore able to exercise my powers as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). I have no objection to exercise and consent to the passage of this bill,” Uzodimma said.
“Imo’s term of service will be extended by five years, making him 65 years old and 40 years of active service.”
The governor noted that the new law will motivate public school teachers in the state and encourage them to be more dedicated and take their jobs seriously.
He also congratulated teachers and said the law aims to encourage them to have job security and perform their duties more effectively and efficiently.
“Our teachers play a vital role in shaping the future, and by extending their professional tenure, we aim to ensure the continuity of their valuable contributions.
“I am confident that they will approach their responsibilities with renewed vigor and dedication, which will ultimately benefit education in Imo State as a whole,” he added.
The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Chike Orembe, commended the governor for showing concern for the welfare of the people of the state.
Mr. Orembe noted that the Presidential Bill was sent to the House of Representatives and passed after third reading on Thursday, November 16.
Source: guardian.ng