By Oghenefejiro Emado
29, July 2026
The Delta State Local Government Joint Account Committee has approved a proposal to elevate graduate teachers in public primary schools from Grade Level 14 to Grade Level 17.
The decision was taken on Wednesday during the committee’s meeting in Asaba.
Council Chairmen present gave unanimous backing to the initiative introduced by the state governor.
Attending the session were the Commissioner for Primary Education, the Commissioner for Directorate of Local Government Affairs, and the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, alongside other stakeholders.
Speaking after the meeting, the Commissioner for Primary Education described the approval as a landmark step for basic education in the state.
She said the move would restore confidence among primary school teachers and show government’s commitment to their welfare.
She noted that with the new ceiling, qualified professionals would be more willing to take up jobs in public primary schools. Previously, career progression for graduate teachers stopped at Grade Level 14, a situation that had discouraged many applicants.
The commissioner said the policy aligns with the administration’s MORE Agenda of expanding opportunities and improving public service delivery.
She added that it addresses a long-standing demand and is expected to boost morale and dedication among teachers.
She urged beneficiaries to live up to expectations by preparing lesson notes diligently and improving classroom delivery.
According to her, higher responsibility comes with the new grade, and teachers must match it with professionalism to improve learning outcomes.
The Commissioner for Local Government Affairs commended the governor for reforms that have strengthened council finances. He said improved funding has enabled local governments to pay salaries promptly and deliver projects such as roads and buildings.
The SUBEB Chairman said the policy was designed to strengthen basic education and attract more degree holders into primary schools. He noted that while the NCE remains the minimum qualification, recruiting graduates is key to raising standards.
Leaders of ALGON, the Nigeria Union of Teachers, and the Local Government Service Commission also praised the decision.
They expressed optimism that the promotion would lead to better teaching standards and improved results for pupils across Delta’s public primary schools.
