Teachers in the Federal Capital Territory have received some relief after their union decided to suspend an ongoing strike.

The strike, which started on April 20, had affected many primary and secondary schools across the area. It was called because of unpaid allowances and other long-standing issues affecting the welfare of teachers.

Following talks and promises from the government, the union leaders met and chose to put the strike on hold for now.

The decision to suspend the strike came after an emergency meeting by the FCT Wing Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (FCT NUT). Mr Abdullahi Shafa, the chairman, announced the suspension on Sunday in Gwagwalada. He explained that the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, had stepped in to help solve the problems.

The minister approved the release of funds every month to cover a special 40 per cent allowance for teachers and to clear other outstanding payments they were owed.

Under the new agreement, the FCT administration will release N2 billion monthly from its internally generated revenue. Another N3 billion will come from the share meant for the area councils. These funds will help pay the allowances and settle the remaining entitlements for primary school teachers. The minister also promised to look into the promotion process for teachers. He plans to remove certain conditions that have been blocking promotions and to review the 2024 promotion exercise.

Mr Shafa made it clear that no teacher should face any punishment for taking part in the strike. He praised the teachers for standing together and showing strong support during the action.

However, he warned that the union would review its decision again if the government fails to keep its promises. Teachers have now been asked to return to their classrooms and resume duties starting Monday, April 27.

This suspension brings hope that learning will continue without further interruption for students in the FCT.

Parents and school authorities can now plan for normal classes to resume. The move also shows that dialogue between the government and the union can help address important issues facing the education sector. Many are watching closely to see if the agreed funds and changes will be fully implemented as promised.