Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has directed the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) to urgently remove all unqualified teachers from classrooms nationwide.
Speaking on Friday at the inauguration of the fifth Governing Council of TRCN in Abuja, the minister described the presence of unlicensed educators as a direct threat to Nigeria’s educational future.
“This is not business as usual. You must completely eliminate the presence of unqualified teachers from our classrooms,” Alausa declared. “Revoke licences of those who tarnish the dignity of the profession.”
He warned that members of the newly inaugurated council would be assessed quarterly using strict Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) under the supervision of the Ministry of Education.
“Either deliver or step aside,” he cautioned.
Alausa noted that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to reform the teaching profession as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda. According to him, the goal is to professionalise the system, enforce accountability, and reposition teachers as respected nation builders.
“We are igniting a revolution in the standards, dignity, and future of Nigeria’s teaching profession,” the minister said. “Every Nigerian child deserves a certified professional—with no exceptions.”
Citing Finland as a global example where teachers are revered, he urged council members to emulate best practices. “You are not here to warm seats. You are here as architects of a new era. Your responsibility is immense,” he added.
Addressing educators, Alausa said, “To our teachers nationwide: this is your Council. Own it. To parents and communities: hold us accountable. And to this Governing Council: the time for rhetoric is over. The work begins now.”
He called for national unity in improving education standards, stating, “Though our tribes and tongues may differ, we must stand together so every child, from Sokoto to Calabar, is taught by a qualified, inspired, and TRCN-certified teacher.”
The minister closed by praying for the council’s success, affirming the government’s resolve to restore the dignity of teaching across Nigeria.
