Lagos- A Lagos lawmaker, Mr Olusegun Olulade, on Wednesday advocated 20 per cent increase in the remuneration of teachers and doctors working in rural areas.
Olulade (APC-Epe II) of the Lagos State House of Assembly, made the plea at the maiden edition of `Eleniyan Ambassadors’ in his constituency.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ‘Eleniyan Ambassadors’ is an education support scheme of the lawmaker in the area.
The lawmaker said that increasing the remuneration of the workers would not only enable the rural dwellers access dividends of democracy, but also enhance migration to rural areas.
“We are working with the governor to see how best to approach the shortage of teachers in schools in Epe.
“We should introduce incentives to teachers in rural areas to encourage those who are there.
“Probably, additional 20 per cent of remuneration should be given to teachers, doctors and others who provide essential services, to encourage the workers in the area,” he said.
Olulade, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Health, said that there were continual attempts by workers in rural areas to seek transfer to urban areas.
The lawmaker, who encouraged teachers and other essential service providers to work in rural areas, said it was economical and safe.
NAN reports that the lawmaker also gave educational materials to 324 pupils selected from 36 public primary schools in the constituency.
Pupils who came first, second and third in Basic 4, 5 and 6 in the first term examinations in their schools won brand new school bags, exercise books, mathematical sets, food items among other things.
Olulade said he was committed to creating healthy academic competition in the area, urging parents to encourage their children to attend school and be focused.
“I want to encourage pupils that through determination, hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve his or her goal, so, all students should be focused and avoid illicit activities.
“I want to see these pupils excelling in the nearest future, becoming captain of industries, doctors, lawyers, senators under ‘Eleniyan Ambassadors’,” he said.
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One of the beneficiaries, Yale Alfred of LG Primary School, Ikosi Beach in Epe, said:” I am happy to be part of this celebration, I will work harder to come first next year to also be part of it.”
Another pupil, Muftau Rukayat, of Anglican Primary School, Oke Oso, also said she was excited to be part of the programme. (NAN)
