Teachers in government-owned primary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have begun an indefinite strike, significantly affecting students’ academic routines. The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Chapter, called the strike following a 14-day ultimatum issued to the six area councils in the territory.
On Wednesday, September 18, students arriving at their schools were sent home as teachers joined the strike action. Comrade Ameh Baba, Chairman of the NUT in Kubwa, confirmed that the strike aims to pressure the area councils into addressing their commitment to settle 60 percent of the minimum wage arrears owed to teachers.
Baba criticized the councils for their failure to implement a 40 percent peculiar allowance and the promised salary increments of 25 percent and 35 percent for teachers. He emphasized the importance of primary education and warned that the strike could escalate if there is no resolution within seven days.
“If there is no response within seven days, we will picket the area councils’ secretariats,” Baba stated, hinting that the strike might expand to include secondary school teachers and impact incoming Junior Secondary School (JSS) 1 students awaiting their results.
The union’s actions highlight growing frustration over unresolved wage and allowance disputes, with potential for broader disruptions if the demands are not met