By Joseph Erunke
The Federal Government has welcomed the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, describing the breakthrough as a significant victory for dialogue and a major boost to uninterrupted learning for thousands of pupils across the state.
The government said the resolution, achieved through sustained negotiations involving the Federal Ministry of Education, the Oyo State Government and the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, at the national, zonal and state levels, has paved the way for teachers to return to classrooms after the industrial action.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who announced the development, said the successful resolution underscored the commitment of all stakeholders to prioritising the future of Nigerian children over every other interest.
“I am glad to report today that the strike has been suspended. Teachers are now returning to school to educate their students. This is the result of our collaboration and coordination with the leadership of the National Union of Teachers and the Government of Oyo State,” Alausa said.
The minister praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for what he described as exemplary leadership in resolving the dispute through dialogue rather than confrontation.
He also commended the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Comrade Audu Titus Amba; the NUT Zonal President, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai; the leadership of the union’s Oyo State wing; and members of its executive committee for demonstrating statesmanship by placing the interests of schoolchildren above all else.
Beyond the resolution of the industrial dispute, Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that insecurity does not deprive Nigerian children of their constitutional right to education.
He declared that the administration of President Bola Tinubu would not allow criminal elements to disrupt academic activities or intimidate citizens into abandoning schools.
“Our children will remain in school, and we will continue to educate them. We will not succumb to terror. This administration remains resolute in confronting insecurity with every available resource and ensuring that our schools continue to serve as safe places for teaching and learning,” the minister stated.
Alausa further paid glowing tribute to teachers across the country, describing them as patriotic nation-builders whose resilience and dedication remain critical to Nigeria’s educational development despite prevailing challenges.
The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated its commitment to deepening collaboration with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety, sustain industrial harmony and guarantee uninterrupted access to quality education for every Nigerian child in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.
