FCT Teachers End Three-Month Strike, Resume Classes July 9

After over three months of industrial action, teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have officially called off their strike, with all primary schools scheduled to resume on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

The announcement was made by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) FCT chapter following an emergency meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, July 8.

According to the NUT, the strike was suspended after the government:

• Paid the new minimum wage

• Cleared five months of unpaid salary arrears

• Disbursed N16 billion from the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the Area Councils

“All primary school teachers in the FCT are to resume duty on Wednesday,” the union stated.

The strike, which began in March, had crippled academic activities in public primary schools across Abuja and surrounding councils.

The breakthrough came after FCT Minister Nyesom Wike intervened, bringing together stakeholders to negotiate a solution. The talks resulted in a financial bailout sourced from Area Councils' IGR to address part of the backlog.

To ensure long-term financial sustainability, both parties agreed to:

• Form a special committee within two weeks

• Finalize a structured payment plan for remaining entitlements

• Prevent future breakdowns in teacher remuneration

While confirming the resumption, the NUT warned that if the government defaults on any part of the agreement, the strike will be reactivated immediately.

The union also:

• Thanked traditional leaders, civil society, and advocacy groups for their support

• Praised teachers for their patience and resilience throughout the dispute