Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has commended Nigerian teachers for their dedication while promising measures to improve their welfare and make life more affordable.

Atiku made the pledge in a statement issued by his Director of Strategic Communication, Mr Phrank Shaibu, on Monday to mark World Teachers’ Day.

He recalled the role played by his early teachers in Jada, saying they recognised his potential as a young orphan and helped shape his future.

Atiku said teachers remained central to national development but were increasingly burdened by the rising costs of food, transportation, rent and electricity.

He said reports of teachers walking long distances because they could not afford transport fares, or borrowing food to feed their families, illustrated the economic difficulties confronting many professionals in the sector.

The former vice president said government recognition of teachers should extend beyond annual celebrations and be reflected in policies that improve their working and living conditions.

“Government cannot praise teachers on this day and leave them to face hardship for the rest of the year. A commemorative message cannot pay a teacher’s bills,” he said.

Atiku, who founded the American University of Nigeria, described teachers as builders of confidence, knowledge and opportunity, stressing that the country could not secure its future while neglecting those responsible for educating its children.

He said his administration, if elected, would pursue policies aimed at reducing the cost of living, supporting decent employment and improving the welfare of teachers and other working Nigerians.

“My promise is clear: I will work to make life affordable again. Teachers and families should not have to watch their incomes disappear on food, transport, rent and electricity,” he said.

Atiku also urged Nigerians to match tributes to teachers with concrete action and sustained support for the profession.

He thanked teachers across the country for their service and commitment, saying their contribution to education and national development deserved meaningful recognition and improved conditions.