The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) branch, has resumed industrial action as of Wednesday, citing unresolved welfare issues with the six area councils. The strike follows previous actions suspended in October 2023 and January 2024.
The decision to strike was communicated in a statement signed by NUT Chairman Mr. Abdullahi Shaf, State Secretary Mrs. Margaret Jethro, and Publicity Secretary Mr. Ibukun Adekeye. The union’s State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) meeting on Tuesday led to the decision after the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the area councils to fulfill teachers’ entitlements.
The NUT directed all public primary school teachers in the FCT to strike until their demands are met, closing all schools in the region. Parents were advised to be aware of this development.
Key unresolved issues include:
- Non-payment of 60% of 25-month-old minimum wage arrears
- Non-implementation and payment of 25% and 35% salary increases
- Non-payment of a 40% peculiar allowance
- Non-payment of the N35,000 wage award arrears
- Failure to implement the agreed template on teachers’ outstanding entitlements from 2022
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had previously intervened by paying 40% of the minimum wage arrears. However, the area councils have yet to fulfill their obligation to pay the remaining 60%, which prompted the continuation of the strike. Teachers expressed appreciation for Wike’s efforts but criticized the area councils for failing to keep their promise.