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| File Photo: School teacher attending to her students in a classroom |
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its industrial action in public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State, directing members to return to work on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
Naija Brain reports that the decision followed renewed discussions with the Oyo State Government and fresh assurances on improved security after the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The decision was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday and jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami.
According to the union, the suspension was approved by the national leadership after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals from the state government and other stakeholders.
Strike Suspended After Government Assurances
The NUT said the strike, which was declared in protest against the kidnapping of teachers and learners in Oriire LGA, was suspended in the interest of teachers, students and the general public.
“The Nigeria Union of Teachers hereby directs all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to resume official duties on Thursday, July 2, 2026,” the statement read.
The union disclosed that the state government assured it of sustained efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.
Government's Commitments
According to the union, the government pledged to intensify rescue operations, establish a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access roads, maintain regular engagement with affected families, and provide psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims.
Other commitments include the payment of gratuities and other entitlements to the families of deceased teachers, strengthening the Safe School Initiative, improving early warning systems, upgrading emergency response mechanisms, dismantling criminal hideouts, improving school infrastructure, and deploying technology to enhance security in schools.
The government also promised to tackle illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, strengthen community intelligence gathering, ensure the speedy prosecution of suspects, and improve the welfare of security personnel.
The NUT commended its members for their discipline and solidarity throughout the industrial action and appreciated the support of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), and other stakeholders.
“We sincerely appreciate all our members, ANCOPSS, AOPSHON, and other stakeholders for their discipline, solidarity, and unwavering support during this period. Your cooperation has once again demonstrated our collective commitment to the welfare and safety of teachers and learners,” the statement added.
The union also urged teachers to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities or security threats within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.
It stressed that collective vigilance was essential to ensuring the safety of both educators and learners.
The NUT reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare, dignity and security of its members, pledging to sustain dialogue with the Oyo State Government until all outstanding concerns were fully addressed.
According to the union, it would continue constructive engagement with the government to ensure adequate measures are put in place to guarantee the safety of teachers and students across the state.