Over 60 Teachers Co-opted Into NUT Udu Executive As Gbejegbe Calls For Unity.

By Henry Ubus

History was made today Tuesday, March 10, 2026, in the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Udu Branch as over 60 teachers drawn from both primary and secondary schools across Udu Local Government Area of Delta State were co-opted to work with the 13-member executive of the union.

The newly co-opted members were formally sworn in during a ceremony at Special School, Egini Primary school where the Secretary of the union, Rev’d Comr Kadiri Anthony Aghwotu. administered the oath of office, charging them to uphold the values and principles of the teaching profession while discharging their responsibilities.

The motion for the co-option of the teachers was moved by a State Officer of the NUT, Comrade Ebah JOC, and seconded by the Publicity Secretary of the NUT Udu Branch, Comrade. Etinagbedia Mercy Ufuoma (née Omavuovworho). The motion was unanimously adopted through a voice vote by members present, with the “ayes” having it.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman of the NUT Udu Branch, Johnbull Igholohemu Gbejegbe, described the event as a historic and defining moment in the life of the union.

According to him, the inauguration of the co-opted members was not merely ceremonial but a strategic step towards strengthening the union’s leadership structure and advancing the welfare of teachers in Udu Local Government Area.

“It is not just another ceremony; it is a defining moment in the life of our union. Today, as we swear in the co-opted members who will work alongside the executive, we are strengthening the team that will help move our union forward and advance the welfare of teachers across Udu Local Government Area,” he said.

Comrade Gbejegbe noted that the mandate given to the executive by members of the union must be treated with utmost responsibility, humility, and commitment to service.

He stressed that leadership within the union demands sacrifice, dedication, and accountability, adding that no executive who understands the weight of responsibility would toy with the trust reposed in them by teachers.

“Leadership is not merely a position of authority; it demands sacrifice and dedication to the collective good. It requires courage, accountability, and the willingness to work together, even in difficult moments,” he stated.

The NUT chairman further emphasized the importance of unity within the union, saying that the strength of the organization lies in its collective resolve to defend the rights, dignity, and welfare of teachers.

He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the voices and concerns of teachers in both primary and secondary schools are heard and addressed.

“I stand here as the number one teacher in Udu, representing both our primary and secondary school teachers many of whom depend on this union to defend their rights, protect their dignity, and advocate strongly for their welfare,” he added.

Comrade Gbejegbe also charged the newly sworn-in co-opted members to see their appointments as a call to service rather than a ceremonial position.

According to him, they were selected based on their integrity, capacity, and willingness to serve, urging them to always defend the union whenever the need arises.

“You are not just members; you are ambassadors of this union. At any time, you may be delegated to represent the chairman and the Nigeria Union of Teachers on official assignments. When such responsibilities arise, you must carry the image, values, and dignity of the union with honour and courage,” he said.

He called on the co-opted members to bring their ideas, experience, and commitment to support the administration in strengthening the union and protecting the interests of teachers across the local government.

The chairman expressed optimism that with unity, courage, and collective determination, the NUT Udu Branch would continue to grow stronger and more progressive in its efforts to promote the welfare and professional dignity of teachers.

The ceremony was attended by teachers from various primary and secondary schools across Udu Local Government Area, marking a significant step in consolidating the leadership structure of the union.