NIGERIA: Teachers Resume Work as NUT Suspends Strike

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its statewide strike in Oyo State following renewed engagements with the state government and assurances on measures to improve security after the abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area.

In a statement jointly signed by the union’s Oyo State Chairman, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the union said the decision followed a directive from its national leadership after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals by the Oyo State Government and other stakeholders.

The statement said, “The suspension followed a directive from the National Headquarters of the Nigeria Union of Teachers after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals by the Oyo State Government and other critical stakeholders.”

The union directed all public primary and secondary school teachers across the state to resume official duties from Thursday, July 2, 2026.

According to the statement, the state government assured the union that sustained efforts were underway to secure the safe release of the abducted teachers and learners while strengthening security around schools and surrounding communities.

The government also pledged to establish a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, strengthen the Safe School Initiative, improve emergency response mechanisms, enhance community intelligence gathering, deploy technology to improve school security, and provide psychosocial support for rescued victims.

While directing members to return to the classrooms, the union urged teachers to remain vigilant and promptly report any security threats within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.

The statement, e-signed by the Secretary of NUT, Oyo Wing, Comrade Olukayode Salami, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to protecting the welfare and security of teachers and pledged to continue engaging the government until all outstanding safety concerns are addressed.