Public primary and secondary schools across Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory are set for disruption as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (FCT Wing) has directed its members to commence an indefinite strike from Monday.
The decision followed an emergency meeting of the State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) held in Gwagwalada, according to a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Abdullahi Shafa; State Secretary, Margaret Jethro; and Publicity Secretary, Ibukun Adekeye.
The union directed all public school teachers to withdraw their services indefinitely, citing unresolved welfare issues and what it described as continued silence from authorities.
“All public primary and secondary school teachers in the FCT are hereby directed to proceed on an indefinite strike with effect from Monday and remain at home until further notice,” statement said.
Parents and guardians were also advised to keep their children at home as academic activities are expected to be halted across affected schools.
“Parents are advised to keep their children and wards safe at home pending further developments,” the union added.
The action follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, demanding the resolution of outstanding entitlements and other concerns affecting teachers.
While acknowledging steps already taken by the administration, the union maintained that key issues remain unaddressed.
“The Council appreciates the Honourable Minister for the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage and payment of nine months arrears; however, several critical issues are yet to be resolved,” the statement noted.
Top among the grievances is the non-release of a committee report submitted in August 2025, which was expected to provide lasting solutions to disputes involving primary school teachers.
“A committee constituted to harmonise outstanding entitlements submitted its report since August 2025, but the report has not been made public,” the union said.
The teachers also expressed concern over promotion policies, particularly the requirement linking advancement to vacancies.
“We call for the removal of the ‘vacancies’ precondition for promotion and a total review of the 2024 promotion exercise to allow eligible teachers progress without hindrance,” the statement added.
The union stressed that repeated delays and lack of response even after an extended grace periodbleft it with no option but to take industrial action.
“After exhaustive deliberations and the continued silence on the legitimate demands of teachers, the Council resolved that this action is necessary until all issues are addressed,” it concluded.
The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities across the FCT, raising concerns among parents and education stakeholders as they await a response from the authorities.