Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has urged Nigerian teachers to embrace continuous professional development and learn to use emerging technologies responsibly, stressing that artificial intelligence cannot replace the human role in teaching.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made the call on Monday at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day Commemoration and President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards Ceremony in Abuja.
Alausa said artificial intelligence and other technologies were changing how knowledge was accessed and delivered but could not replace teachers’ professional judgement, encouragement and human connection with learners. “Technology and Artificial Intelligence are changing how knowledge is accessed and used. These tools can help teachers reach learners and tailor instruction, but the judgement, encouragement and human connection of a skilled teacher remain indispensable,” he said.
The minister urged teachers to continuously develop their skills so they could adapt to changes in education and use technology to improve learning rather than regard it as a substitute for professional teaching.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Saidu Ahmad, also called for stronger teacher preparation, continuous professional development and improved welfare. “We must protect and advance the status of teaching in a rapidly changing world,” she said.
The event was held under the theme, “Protecting and Advancing the Status of the Teaching Profession in a Rapidly Changing World.”
It also featured the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, which recognised outstanding teachers and schools for professionalism, innovation and leadership.
The government said strengthening teachers’ capacity remained central to improving education outcomes as Nigeria responds to rapid technological and social changes.
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Hope Ajayi 
Korede Abdullah 