Alausa Calls for Dialogue to Resolve FCT Teachers’ Strike

Alausa Urges Dialogue to Resolve FCT Teachers’ Strike

The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has appealed for constructive dialogue and unity in addressing the concerns raised by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Wing, over the ongoing strike by primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement issued Monday in Abuja by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the minister acknowledged the union’s grievances, particularly regarding the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage for primary school teachers in the FCT.

Dr. Alausa stressed the indispensable role teachers play in shaping the nation’s foundational education system and expressed deep concern over the situation. He referenced a communiqué released by the NUT following its Emergency State Wing Standing Committee (SWSC) meeting held on March 22, 2025, in Gwagwalada.

While the administration of Local Education Authority (LEA) primary schools in the FCT falls under the jurisdiction of the six Area Councils and their respective LEAs, the minister recognized the challenges posed by the decentralised governance structure.

He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity, and professional development of teachers across all levels.

To that end, he said the Ministry of Education, the FCT Administration, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and other relevant agencies would continue to engage stakeholders in efforts to resolve the crisis.

Dr. Alausa also urged the Area Council Chairmen to take proactive and responsible steps toward resolving the matter amicably.

“In line with the principles of cooperative governance and shared responsibility, the ministry will sustain its mediation efforts among stakeholders to foster constructive dialogue,” he said, adding that this approach is critical to preventing further disruptions to children’s education caused by unresolved administrative challenges.

The minister further underscored President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that significant reforms are underway in the basic education sector, including infrastructure upgrades, digital learning expansion, curriculum improvements, and teacher development initiatives.

“These national gains must be complemented by fairness, equity, and responsiveness to the needs of educators,” he said.

Dr. Alausa concluded by calling on all stakeholders — unions, Area Councils, and education administrators — to act in good faith and embrace transparency and shared responsibility, in order to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s basic education system from unnecessary disruption.