Teachers Return to Class as FG, Oyo Government, NUT End School Strike, Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State have resumed academic activities after the suspension of the teachers’ strike that disrupted teaching and learning for weeks.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the development on Thursday, describing it as the outcome of successful negotiations between the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).
The resolution followed a series of high-level meetings involving officials of the ministry, the Oyo State Government, and the leadership of the NUT at the national, zonal, and state levels.
The talks resulted in an agreement that paved the way for teachers to return to their classrooms with immediate effect.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said the suspension of the strike demonstrated the commitment of all parties to protecting the education and future of schoolchildren.
According to the minister, teachers have resumed work and students are expected to continue their academic activities without further interruption.
He said the achievement was made possible through close collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education, the leadership of the NUT, and the Oyo State Government.
Dr. Alausa commended Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for embracing dialogue and peaceful negotiations in resolving the dispute.
He also praised NUT National President, Audu Titus Amba, South-West Zonal Chairman, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Oyo State NUT leadership for their constructive roles throughout the discussions.
The industrial action was triggered by growing security concerns after the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
Following the incident, the NUT directed its members in public primary and secondary schools to withdraw their services over fears for their safety.
The minister assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to tackling insecurity and ensuring schools remain safe for teaching and learning. He stressed that the government would not allow criminal activities to disrupt children’s education.
Dr. Alausa further applauded teachers across the country for their dedication and resilience despite the challenges facing the education sector.
He added that the ministry would continue working with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies, and other stakeholders to improve school safety and guarantee every child’s right to uninterrupted quality education under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
