Public primary and secondary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory have announced the commencement of an indefinite strike starting Monday, citing unresolved welfare issues and the government’s failure to act on previous agreements.
The decision was reached by the State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT chapter, during an emergency meeting held in Gwagwalada, Abuja.
In a communiqué jointly signed by State Chairman Abdullahi Shafa, Secretary Margaret Jethro, and Publicity Secretary Ibukun Adekeye, the union directed all teachers to withdraw their services immediately and remain at home until further notice.
“We hereby direct all primary and secondary school teachers in the FCT to proceed on an indefinite strike beginning Monday,” the union stated. “Members are to comply fully and await further instructions as we continue to press for the resolution of our demands.”
The union also urged parents and guardians to keep their children at home during the strike period to ensure their safety.
The industrial action follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on March 11, which was later extended by an additional 28 days. According to the union, the government has yet to respond meaningfully to the issues raised.
While acknowledging the implementation of the new ₦70,000 minimum wage and the payment of nine months’ salary arrears, the teachers said several critical concerns remain unresolved.
“We appreciate the intervention of the Honourable Minister in addressing some of our demands,” the communiqué noted. “However, key issues, particularly those relating to outstanding entitlements and promotion processes, have not been addressed.”
The union expressed frustration over the delay in releasing and implementing the report of a committee set up in July 2025 to harmonise outstanding entitlements for primary school teachers.
“The committee completed its assignment and submitted its report in August 2025, yet it has not been made public or implemented,” the statement said. “This continued delay is unacceptable.”
Among other demands, the teachers are calling for the immediate release and execution of the committee’s recommendations, as well as the removal of conditions tied to vacancies for teacher promotions.
They also demanded a comprehensive review of the 2024 promotion exercise conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission to ensure that qualified teachers are not unfairly denied career advancement.
“After exhaustive deliberations and considering the silence of the authorities, the council resolved that teachers will remain on strike until all outstanding issues are addressed,” the union added.
The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities across public schools in the FCT, leaving thousands of students out of classrooms indefinitely.
