Over N1.7 billion has been disbursed to about 6,300 teachers and next-of-kin between 2022 and 2026 under the Teachers’ Social Security Scheme (Endwell Scheme) in Oyo State.
The Endwell scheme was conceived at a time when retiring teachers were abandoned by all tiers of government, and many faced severe psychological and financial distress due to late payment of gratuities and pensions.
But since its inception about three decades ago, the initiative has become a dependable social security support for thousands in the state.
At the 14th state (Biennial) general meeting of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) held at the Teachers’ House, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan, the chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr Obasola Elijah Olayiwola, reaffirmed the scheme’s solid financial footing and consistent fulfilment of obligations to members.
During the presentation of the management report, he said the rise in benefit payments reflects an increasing number of retiring teachers and a growing subscriber base, boosted by the recruitment of new teachers by Governor Seyi Makinde.
He assured members that the scheme remains financially disciplined, saying, “The Endwell Scheme continues to be a strong pillar of support for our teachers. The steady increase in beneficiaries underscores our commitment to protecting the welfare of those who serve in our classrooms.”
He added that the board will continue to strengthen investment strategies to maintain sustainable returns for contributors.
On his part, the chairman of NUT Oyo State chapter, Mr Raji Oladimeji Ismael, said the new financial data confirms that the Endwell Scheme has entered a new era of stability, strength, and relevance.
He stated that the scheme’s uninterrupted performance over the last three decades, without any record of financial collapse, demonstrates its resilience despite past scepticism and opposition.
“Today marks another milestone in the history of Endwell. The gloomy days are completely over. The scheme has weathered storms, survived doubt, and continues to wax stronger daily,” he said.
Mr Oladimeji reiterated that the scheme has consistently paid Non-Refundable Terminal Benefits (NRTB) and death-in-service compensation to members and families across the state for three decades.
He praised past and present management teams, particularly the current Board led by Comrade Obasola, for consolidating the scheme’s successes, also commending subscribers for their loyalty and prompt dues payment.
A major highlight of the event was the special recognition and honour bestowed on the founding fathers and early contributors who played pivotal roles in the creation and successful take-off of the Endwell Scheme.
Those honoured included Comrade Anusat Babatunde Amuda, Comrade Ibrahim Bolomope, Comrade Elijah Olu Abiala, Comrade Suleiman Adediran, Mr Tade Ipadeola, Mrs J. L. Latunji, and Mr Oladiti Oladapo.
The union described them as visionaries whose courage and foresight midwifed a scheme that has now become a lifeline for thousands of educators in Oyo State, urging newly recruited teachers to join the scheme, stressing that Endwell remains one of the most reliable and effective welfare mechanisms available to educators in Oyo State.