The Federal Government has welcomed the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, calling it a win for dialogue and uninterrupted learning.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the ministry said the suspension followed sustained engagement and constructive collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Education, the Oyo State Government and the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the national, zonal and state levels, paving the way for teachers to return to classrooms and restoring uninterrupted learning across the state.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the successful resolution reflected the collective commitment of all stakeholders to place the interests, safety and future of learners above every other consideration.
“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,” the minister said.
Alausa commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for what he described as exemplary leadership and commitment to resolving the impasse through dialogue.
He also expressed appreciation to the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, the NUT 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 and placing the interests of learners first in reaching an amicable resolution.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child enjoys uninterrupted access to quality education despite the security challenges confronting parts of the country.
He stressed that attempts by criminal elements to disrupt education through attacks on innocent citizens would not succeed.
“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,” Alausa stated.
The minister also paid tribute to teachers across Nigeria for their patriotism, resilience and unwavering dedication to nurturing future generations, describing them as indispensable partners in national development whose sacrifices continue to strengthen the nation’s education system.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue to work closely with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety, promote constructive dialogue and safeguard every child’s right to uninterrupted, quality education in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
