The FCT wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has officially suspended its over three-month-long strike by primary school teachers. The decision follows a resolution reached after a stakeholders’ meeting convened by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
According to a communiqué dated July 4 and made available on Tuesday, the teachers have been directed to resume classes on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Background of the Strike
The strike, which began on March 24, 2025, stemmed from the non-payment of salary arrears and the failure to implement the new national minimum wage.
However, after months of tension, the FCT Minister committed to using 10 percent of the internally generated revenue (IGR) of Area Councils to offset the salaries owed to primary school teachers. Source
Resolution and Payment
In the communiqué signed by NUT Chairman Abdullahi Shafas, State Secretary Margaret Jethro, and Publicity Secretary Ibukun Adekeye, the union acknowledged the Minister’s offer as a workable interim solution. The union confirmed that a payment of N16 billion had been disbursed to the teachers’ accounts on July 8, 2025.
“Having deliberated exhaustively… the SWEC-In-Session resolved to suspend the Strike action on the release of the N16 billion and its payment to the Teachers’ accounts,” the communiqué read.
It added that teachers are to return to classrooms effective July 9, while the union continues to pursue the settlement of remaining entitlements.
Appreciation to Stakeholders
The FCT NUT extended gratitude to teachers, royal fathers, civil society groups, and labor organizations that supported the strike effort.
“Our special thanks go to the FCT Royal Fathers, Civil Society Organizations, and well-meaning individuals who intervened,” the union said.
They also recognized the national leadership of NUT and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for their guidance and support during the industrial action.
