FCT Teachers in the Public primary and secondary school have commenced an indefinite strike following unresolved issues with the authorities. The directive was issued by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (FCT chapter), affecting schools across the six area councils.
The strike action is coming at a critical time, as schools were scheduled to resume for the second term academic session. As a result, many students are now unable to return to classrooms, raising concerns among parents and education stakeholders.
According to the union, the decision to embark on the strike stems from the failure of the FCT Administration to release and implement a report addressing outstanding financial entitlements owed to teachers. The report, which was expected to resolve long-standing issues, has not been made public since its submission.
The resolution was reached during an emergency meeting held in Gwagwalada, Abuja, where union leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the continued delay and lack of communication from the authorities. The communiqué announcing the strike was signed by key officials, including the FCT NUT Chairman, Abdullah Shafas, Secretary Margaret Jethro, and Publicity Secretary Ibukun Adekeye.
Among the demands of the teachers is the removal of “vacancy” as a requirement for the promotion of classroom teachers. The union also called for a review of the 2004 promotion exercise conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission, to ensure that qualified teachers are not denied career advancement opportunities.
The union further explained that a committee set up by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in July 2025 had been tasked with resolving the issue of unpaid entitlements within two weeks. Although the committee reportedly submitted its findings in August 2025, no action has been taken since then.
Despite issuing a seven-day ultimatum followed by an additional 28-day grace period to the authorities, the union said there has been no meaningful response. This prolonged silence, coupled with the current economic challenges, prompted the decision to proceed with an indefinite strike.
The union has directed all affected teachers to fully comply with the strike action until their demands are met. Parents have also been advised to keep their children at home until further notice, as academic activities in public schools remain suspended.
The development highlights ongoing challenges within the education sector and raises concerns about the impact of prolonged industrial actions on students’ learning and academic progress.
Community Join the conversation Open discussion +