Education Ministry Seeks Swift Resolution Of FCT Primary Schools Strike

The Federal Ministry of Education has reviewed with concern the communiqué issued by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Wing, following its Emergency State Wing Standing Committee meeting, in Abuja.

A Statement by Director, Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Education,
Boriowo Folasade notes that the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa acknowledges the concerns raised by the Union regarding the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage for primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the Ministry deeply values the unwavering commitment of Nigerian teachers, who remain the backbone of foundational education system.

It says while the administration of LEA Primary Schools in the FCT falls under the purview of the six Area Councils and their respective Local Education Authorities (LEAs), the Federal Ministry of Education reaffirms its commitment to the welfare, dignity, and professional development of teachers at all levels.

The statement says the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and other key agencies will continue to engage on this matter and encourage the Area Council Chairmen to do the same, with a view to settling the issue amicably.

According to the Minister, 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.

He also says under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry is leading far-reaching reforms in basic education, covering infrastructure, digital learning, curriculum modernization, and teacher development hence these national gains must be complemented by fairness, equity, and responsiveness to the needs of educators.

It says the Ministry, therefore, calls on all parties, Unions, Area Councils, and Education Administrators to act in good faith and prioritize dialogue, transparency, and shared responsibility for the integrity of Nigeria’s basic education to be safeguarded against avoidable disruptions.

PR/Nkiruka Okeke