By Emmanuel Onyedika
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its strike across Oyo State public schools after renewed talks with the state government and assurances of stronger security measures following the abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by Oyo State Chairman Hassan Ajibola Fatai and Secretary Olukayode Salami, the union explained that the suspension was directed by its national leadership after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals from the Oyo State Government and other stakeholders. Teachers in public primary and secondary schools are expected to resume duties from Thursday, July 2, 2026, bringing an end to the industrial action declared in response to the Oriire abduction.
The union said the decision was taken in the collective interest of teachers, learners and the general public after the government assured that sustained efforts were underway to secure the safe release of the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools and surrounding communities. It disclosed that the government had made several commitments aimed at preventing future attacks, including intensified rescue efforts, the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, continuous engagement with affected families, psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims, and payment of gratuities and entitlements to families of deceased teachers.
Other measures promised by the government include strengthening the Safe School Initiative through public sensitisation and early warning systems, improving emergency response mechanisms, addressing criminal hideouts, upgrading school infrastructure, tackling illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, enhancing community intelligence gathering, ensuring speedy prosecution of suspects, improving the welfare of security personnel, and deploying technology to bolster school security.
The union commended its members, as well as the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), for their discipline, solidarity and compliance throughout the strike, describing their support as instrumental in advancing the welfare and security of teachers and learners. While directing members to return to classrooms, the NUT urged teachers to remain vigilant, obey the law and promptly report any security threats within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the welfare and security of teachers, the NUT stressed that it would continue engaging the government until all outstanding concerns regarding the safety of teachers and students are fully addressed.