The Federal Ministry of Education has called for constructive dialogue and unity among key stakeholders in a bid to resolve the ongoing strike by primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which has lasted for over three months.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Ministry expressed concern over the communiqué issued by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Wing, following its Emergency State Wing Standing Committee (SWSC) meeting held on March 22, 2025, in Gwagwalada, Abuja.
Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, acknowledged the grievances raised by the Union, particularly those concerning the implementation of the new national minimum wage for primary school teachers in the FCT. He commended the dedication of Nigerian teachers, describing them as the backbone of the country’s foundational education system.
While clarifying that the administration of LEA Primary Schools in the FCT is under the jurisdiction of the six Area Councils and their respective Local Education Authorities (LEAs), the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the welfare, dignity, and professional growth of teachers at all levels.
Read also: LASU promotes youth leadership, resilience, life beyond classroom
The Ministry noted that it is working closely with Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and other relevant agencies to address the issue. Stakeholders, particularly the Area Council Chairmen, were urged to actively engage with the teachers’ union to reach an amicable resolution.
“In line with the principles of cooperative governance and shared responsibility, the Ministry will sustain its mediation efforts among stakeholders to foster constructive dialogue and prevent any disruption to children’s education arising from unresolved administrative challenges,” the statement read.
Alausa also emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s basic education system. He noted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, major reforms are underway to improve infrastructure, introduce digital learning, modernize the curriculum, and enhance teacher training nationwide.
“These national gains must be complemented by fairness, equity, and responsiveness to the needs of educators,” he said.
The Ministry appealed to all involved parties including unions, area councils, and education administrators to act in good faith, uphold transparency, and embrace shared responsibility in resolving the wage dispute.
