By BUSHRAH YUSUF-BADMUS

Kwara governor, Mr AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has declared Monday a work-free day for teachers across the state to commemorate the 2026 World Teachers’ Day.

The declaration is contained in a statement issued by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Mashood Agboola, on Friday in Ilorin.

The governor said the gesture recognised teachers’ contributions to education and human capital development across Kwara.

“We extend our best wishes to teachers across the length and breadth of the state whose contributions to human capital development are acknowledged at all times,” he said.

AbdulRazaq appreciated the teachers’ efforts, dedication and resilience in advancing education and developing future generations.

“I thank our teachers for their efforts and resilience and reassured them of our administration’s commitment to the welfare of the teachers and every Kwara resident,” he said.

The governor also wished teachers continued success and greater rewards in their service to humanity.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on Oct. 5 to recognise teachers’ contributions to education and society and highlight issues affecting the profession.

The day was established by UNESCO in 1994 to commemorate the 1966 adoption of the UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.

The recommendation provides international standards concerning teachers’ rights, responsibilities, preparation, recruitment, employment and working conditions.

World Teachers’ Day also provides an opportunity to highlight the need for qualified teachers and stronger support for the teaching profession.

The 2026 observance falls on Monday, Oct. 5, making Kwara’s work-free declaration coincide with the international commemoration.

The state government said the gesture reflected its recognition of teachers as important contributors to human capital development and the wider development of Kwara. (NAN)