Primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are to return to classrooms on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, following the suspension of a strike that lasted nearly four months.
The strike, which began on March 24, 2025, was caused by the nonpayment of the new minimum wage, unpaid salary arrears, and other unfulfilled agreements dating back to 2022.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT chapter, announced the end of the strike after an emergency meeting of its State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) on Tuesday night.
The union confirmed that teachers had started receiving payments, including five months’ salary arrears and the new minimum wage.
This progress came after the intervention of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, who facilitated the release of N16 billion by the six area councils.
The funds represent six months’ worth of 10% of their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), used to settle part of the outstanding obligations to teachers.
In a joint statement signed by NUT Chairman Abdullahi Shafas, State Secretary Margaret Jethro, and Publicity Secretary Ibukun Adekeye, the union said the strike was being suspended following confirmation that the money had been credited to teachers’ accounts.
“All primary school teachers are to resume work immediately and continue their duties,” the statement read, adding that the union would keep pushing for the payment of all remaining entitlements.
The NUT also condemned the indifference shown by some education authorities during the strike but praised the efforts of the FCT Minister, whose involvement compelled the area councils to act.
According to the union, the Minister acknowledged that paying teachers is the responsibility of the area councils but recognized their financial challenges.
He therefore helped secure the N16 billion release to cover the June minimum wage and a portion of nine months’ arrears.
The union also welcomed the Minister’s plan to set up a committee to harmonize all outstanding payments and develop a sustainable salary payment system for primary school teachers.
Finally, the NUT thanked its members for their patience and solidarity throughout the strike, and also appreciated traditional rulers, civil society groups, and concerned Nigerians who supported their cause.
