Teachers Struggle to Make Ends Meet, Turn to Petty Trading

In Nigeria, teachers are facing a harsh reality. Years ago, landlords refused to rent houses to teachers due to their low salaries. Today, the situation hasn’t changed much. Many private school teachers earn as little as N20,000, far below the country’s minimum wage.

The increasing cost of living has forced many teachers to seek alternative income sources. Some have resigned to work in firms or organizations, while others remain in teaching, supplementing their income with petty businesses like selling biscuits, groundnuts, or sweets in class.

Mr. David Ogbebor, a teacher, shared his struggles: “We teachers are going through tough times. Our pay can’t cover our needs. The school management is even deducting tax from my N35,000 salary, which isn’t even the minimum wage.”

Many teachers are taking on extra lessons or part-time classes to make ends meet. Mrs. Lilian Osakpamwan, a former teacher, left the profession due to poor pay and abusive school management. “I wasted my time upgrading my CV, only to be frustrated by the system.”

The national minimum wage was increased to N70,000 in July 2024, but many private schools haven’t implemented it. Teachers are being paid as low as N8,000-N15,000, leading to a shortage of qualified teachers.

Miss Judith Uweni, a former teacher, started a Point of Sale business after struggling to survive on her N30,000 salary. “It’s better than being a slave for someone with no incentive or peace of mind.”

The situation highlights the need for better teacher compensation and working conditions. What’s your take on this issue