By, Tayo Olatunji

The Teachers’ Social Security Scheme (Endwell Scheme) has disbursed more than ₦1.7 billion in benefits to over 6,300 teachers and next-of-kin between 2022 and 2026.

This marks one of its strongest performances since its establishment 30 years ago.

The figures were presented in the Management Report during the 14th State (Biennial) General Meeting held at the Teachers’ House, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan, where the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Comrade Obasola Elijah Olayiwola, reaffirmed the scheme’s solid financial footing and consistent fulfillment of obligations to members.

At the parallel Biennial Meeting of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Oyo State Wing, the Union Chairman, Comrade 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 skepticism and opposition.

“Today marks another milestone in the history of Endwell. The gloomy days are completely over. The scheme has weathered storms, survived skepticism, and continues to wax stronger daily,” he said.

Comrade Raji Oladimeji emphasized that 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.

The scheme, he said, has now become a dependable social security support for thousands.

While presenting the Management Report, Comrade Obasola Olayiwola 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 under 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.

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
Alhaji 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.

Comrade Ismael 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.

He also commended subscribers for their loyalty and prompt dues payment.

The Union urged 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.