Primary School Teachers Begin Indefinite Strike in Abuja

Primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have embarked on an indefinite strike following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Chapter, to the six area councils in the territory.

On Wednesday, students arriving at their schools were left disappointed as teachers turned them away at the school gates, citing the strike action. According to Comrade Ameh Baba, Chairman of the NUT in Kubwa, the decision to proceed with the strike was unanimously reached after the area councils failed to meet the union’s demands.

The primary issue driving the strike is the failure of the six area councils to fulfill their commitment to settle 60% of outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to teachers. Additionally, Comrade Ameh condemned the councils for not implementing the agreed-upon 40% peculiar allowance for teachers, as well as failing to enact a 25% and 35% salary increment for educators.

“Primary education, being the foundation of human development, should be treated with utmost care,” Ameh emphasized, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of teachers and fulfill their promises.

The NUT warned that the strike could escalate if the government fails to respond within seven days. “If there is no response, we will begin picketing the area council secretariats,” Comrade Ameh said. He also hinted at the possibility of secondary school teachers joining in solidarity, further intensifying the protests. The strike is already affecting the release of results for incoming JSS 1 students.