Newly employed primary school teachers in Alimosho have been charged to uphold integrity, excellence, professionalism and dedication as they embark on their careers within the Local Government Education Authority (LGEA).

This was announced at an orientation programme themed *“Dos, Don’ts and Responsibilities”*, held on Wednesday, 18th February 2026, which formally welcomed the educators into the service and outlined the standards, expectations and opportunities that will shape their professional journey.

Delivering her address, the Education Secretary of the Alimosho Local Government Education Authority, Dr Aminat Ige, who proudly described herself as an indigene of Alimosho, warmly welcomed the teachers and urged them to recognise the nobility of their profession.

She emphasised that primary education remains the foundation of lifelong learning, describing it as “the heart of our nation”. Teachers, she said, must therefore demonstrate integrity, confidence, punctuality, diligence and discipline at all times.

Highlighting her commitment to transparency, the Education Secretary announced an open-door policy, encouraging staff to raise genuine concerns responsibly while maintaining professional integrity.

In her words, “My success as the Education Secretary is only achievable if every staff under my authority work in synergy”, she called for unity of purpose across the authority, and urged the teachers to take self-development seriously because their growth is proportional to that of their pupils.

On welfare matters, the ES enjoined the new educators to liaise with the appropriate section depending on the nature of the need/case as independent actions may conflict with established policies. She added that the Counselling unit of the School support section will be helpful in many situations and the Social mobilization section ensures that the need of every pupil is taken care of.

The Erstwhile Education Secretary, Kosofe LGEA, Mr Shoneye Babatunde, in presenting a paper titled “Understanding the System and Civil Service Regulations”, provided a comprehensive overview of the administrative structure governing education. He explained that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education oversees basic education, while SUBEB supervises all LGEAs, which in turn administer primary schools within their jurisdictions.

He further reminded the teachers that civil service operations are strictly regulated, particularly in matters relating to appointment, promotion, discipline and dismissal. He highlighted core rules, including respect for constituted authority, adherence to the oath of secrecy and strict financial regulations, notably the prohibition of loans exceeding one-third of salary.

The Chairman of the Association of Public School Head-Teachers of Nigeria (AOPHSON), Alimosho LGEA Branch, Mrs Grace Omoniyi, reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening discipline, professionalism and holistic development across member schools. Speaking on the association’s guidelines, she emphasised the importance of promoting extra-curricular activities such as the Literary and Debate Society, Farmer’s Club, Red Cross, Girl Guides, Spelling Bee and Math Club, noting that these platforms are vital in nurturing pupils’ intellectual growth, leadership qualities and practical skills, alongside active participation in sporting activities.

Mrs Omoniyi further stressed the need for strict professional conduct among teachers, advising that moderate hairstyles be maintained to prevent classroom distractions, lesson plans be followed diligently, and teaching aids be effectively utilised to avoid abstract instruction. She also reiterated the approved weekly dress code for staff and pupils: English wear on Mondays and Tuesdays, Yoruba native attire on Wednesdays, sportwear on Thursdays, and native wear on Fridays, describing the measure as one that promotes order, unity and cultural consciousness within the school community.

The NUT Chairman, Comrade Olowoyo Isaac, congratulated the newly appointed teachers, describing their selection as a privilege. He urged them to demonstrate diligence, reliability, respect for hierarchy and unwavering integrity in the discharge of their duties.

The Head of Section, Basic Education Quality Assurance (BEQA), Mrs Oluranti Fadahunsi, further reinforced professional standards, outlining clear “dos and don’ts” relating to conduct, grooming and instructional boundaries. She encouraged the teachers to serve as exemplary role models, maintain corporate attire and avoid distracting appearances.

The Head of Section, Human Resource Management and Administration (HRM&A), Mr Olusegun Akinyemi, outlined pathways for career advancement, stressing that progression within the Lagos State Civil Service is merit-based. Promotion involves computer-based tests, interviews, training and strong performance in SPADEV (Staff Performance Appraisal and Development), conducted twice yearly. He informed the new employees that confirmation of appointment requires passing a compulsory examination, and that further academic pursuits must follow due process, including the submission of a formal letter of intent after confirmation.

Mr Akinyemi also encouraged them to plan early for the future by joining cooperative societies or structured savings schemes, noting that retirement conditions are either 35 years of service or 60 years of age.

With clear expectations, structured career pathways and a firm commitment to professionalism, the Alimosho LGEA has set a decisive tone for a new generation of educators, one grounded in discipline, service and a collective vision for quality primary education.