Teachers’ Strike: Wike Invites NUT Leadership for Discussion

In response to the ongoing strike by primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) due to the non-payment of 25 months of minimum wage arrears and other entitlements, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has officially invited the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) for a crucial meeting.

A reliable source from the State Wing Executive Committee (SWEC) of the union, who requested anonymity, confirmed the invitation, stating that Wike's chief of staff extended the offer for discussions aimed at resolving the protracted strike. The objective is to facilitate the return of pupils to their classrooms.

The upcoming meeting is expected to include key stakeholders, such as the six area council chairmen, Dr. Hassan Sule, the Director of the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), and the permanent secretary, as well as other significant figures in the education sector.

The FCT primary school teachers initiated the strike after a 14-day ultimatum was issued to the area council chairmen, demanding the payment of the outstanding 60 percent of minimum wage arrears and other entitlements.

As the situation develops, stakeholders remain hopeful that the discussions will lead to a resolution that will benefit both teachers and students alike, allowing for the prompt resumption of classes in the FCT.