The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has made a passionate appeal to the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to reconsider its decision to embark on an indefinite strike, warning that the industrial action is poorly timed and deeply detrimental to students. 

The strike, which commenced today, Monday, April 20, coincides with the scheduled resumption of the third term academic session, leaving thousands of primary and secondary school pupils stranded across the six area councils of the FCT.

In a statement addressing the crisis, the FCTA expressed deep concern over the disruption, particularly for students in terminal classes who are currently preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and other critical national assessments. Officials argued that keeping children out of the classroom at this juncture creates an avoidable learning gap that could jeopardize their academic performance and future prospects.

The primary bone of contention remains the non-implementation of a 2025 committee report aimed at harmonizing the outstanding entitlements of primary school teachers. While the union acknowledged that Minister Nyesom Wike has already facilitated the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage and nine months of arrears, the NUT maintains that other key welfare demands—including the removal of “vacancies” as a precondition for promotion—remain unaddressed.

The teachers had issued a seven-day ultimatum in March, followed by a 28-day grace period, before resolving to down tools.

Despite the standoff, the FCTA has reiterated its commitment to dialogue, urging the union leadership to return to the negotiating table. The administration maintains that while it recognizes the teachers’ right to advocate for their welfare, the “vulnerable pupils” should not be used as bargaining chips in labor disputes. For now, parents have been advised to keep their children safe at home as stakeholders watch for a potential breakthrough in talks between the government and the union.