A collective of concerned education officers within the Federal Ministry of Education has called upon President Bola Tinubu to authorize a one-time special presidential waiver aimed at facilitating the promotion of eligible officers facing career stagnation.
In a letter directed to the president through the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the group outlined their frustrations over long-standing career delays, noting that many have not seen a promotion since 2013. They indicated that this stagnation has persisted for over a decade, affecting dedicated professionals who possess the necessary qualifications and experience but are hindered by a lack of available positions at higher levels.
The group expressed that this situation has generated significant frustration and lowered morale among the affected staff, many of whom have committed substantial portions of their careers to advancing the country’s education sector.
As part of their proposal, the group also suggested that the special waiver be applicable to the current 2026 promotion exercise, particularly for those who have been at the same grade level for more than ten years despite fulfilling promotion criteria.
The concerned officers have urged for prompt action by relevant authorities, including the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the Federal Civil Service Commission, to implement the necessary changes. They emphasized the importance of sustained measures to prevent future stagnation.
Additionally, the group highlighted that education officers play crucial roles beyond administrative tasks, contributing to policy implementation, planning, and the achievement of national educational objectives. They insisted that the professional development and career advancement of these officers warrant considerable attention.
While seeking a compassionate intervention, the group clarified that they are not proposing an abandonment of established civil service procedures but rather emphasizing the need for special consideration for their unique circumstances.
In their message to the president, they stated that a timely waiver would not only help alleviate the backlog of promotional delays but also reinvigorate commitment and morale among the officers, ensuring that their years of dedication are recognized and valued.
