The Federal Government has welcomed the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, describing the development as a major victory for dialogue, collaboration and the education of Nigerian children.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo. the government said the resolution of the industrial action followed sustained engagement among the ministry, the Oyo State Government and the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the national, zonal and state levels.
The ministry said the agreement had paved the way for teachers to return to classrooms, restoring uninterrupted teaching and learning across the state.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the successful resolution underscored the commitment of all stakeholders to prioritising the interests, safety and future of learners.
“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,” he said.
Alausa commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for what he described as exemplary leadership and commitment to resolving the dispute through dialogue.
He also praised the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, the Zonal President, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, the leadership of the Oyo State wing of the union and members of its executive committee for demonstrating statesmanship in reaching an amicable settlement.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to quality education for every Nigerian child despite prevailing security challenges in parts of the country.
He stressed that efforts by criminal elements to disrupt education through attacks and intimidation would not prevent children from exercising their right to learn.
“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,” he said.
Alausa also paid tribute to teachers across the country for their resilience, patriotism and dedication to nurturing future generations, describing them as indispensable partners in national development.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to working with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety, encourage constructive dialogue and safeguard every child’s right to uninterrupted, quality education in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
