FCT Teachers’ Strike Enters Third Month as NLC Issues 7-Day Ultimatum to Nonchalant Wike

The indefinite strike by primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has entered its third month, with over 400 public primary schools across the six Area Councils remaining shut. Now in its 86th day, the industrial action has left tens of thousands of pupils out of school and placed mounting pressure on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who labour leaders accuse of showing indifference to the crisis.

The FCT chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the FCT Administration, demanding urgent intervention. In a letter dated June 11 and signed by NLC FCT Chairperson Comrade Stephen Knabayi, the union warned that it would commence mass mobilisation and picketing of FCTA offices if their demands are not addressed by Thursday, June 19.

“The NLC FCT Council has written several letters seeking an audience with you, but none have been honoured,” the letter stated, criticising the administration’s prolonged silence. “Your refusal to act on our position letter and demands served on April 24 and again on May 16 is noted with displeasure.”

The strike, which began on March 24, 2025, was sparked by the failure of all six Area Councils to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage and settle months of salary arrears. The teachers’ unions accuse the councils of reneging on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on December 11, 2024, which was brokered by the FCT Administration and endorsed by key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), and the NLC.

Key provisions of the agreement included the commencement of the new minimum wage in January 2025, phased payment of at least five months’ arrears, and the allocation of 50% of the councils’ Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) toward fulfilling these obligations. A tripartite implementation committee, chaired by Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, was also established to oversee compliance. However, no part of the agreement has been implemented as of mid-June.

With classrooms empty and no resolution in sight, frustration continues to grow among teachers, parents, and labour unions. The NLC says it views the inaction of the FCT Administration, particularly Minister Wike’s refusal to engage, as a clear sign of disregard for workers’ rights and public education.

As the June 19 deadline approaches, tension is rising, with organised labour threatening to escalate its response if the government fails to address the teachers’ demands.