The Federal Government has welcomed the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, describing the decision as a major victory for dialogue and a positive step towards restoring normal academic activities in public schools.
In a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government said the resolution was achieved after several meetings involving 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 confirmed that teachers had resumed work and were returning to classrooms across the state.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the outcome reflected the commitment of all parties to put the interests of schoolchildren first.
"I am pleased that the strike has been suspended. Teachers are back in schools to continue educating their students. This was made possible through collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education, the Nigeria Union of Teachers and the Oyo State Government," he said.
Alausa praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for resolving the dispute through dialogue, describing his approach as commendable.
He also acknowledged the efforts of NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, the union's South-West Zonal Chairman, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the leadership of the union in Oyo State for working towards a peaceful resolution.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to ensuring that children remain in school and continue to receive quality education.
He also stressed that the government would continue working to improve security around schools and protect students and teachers from threats.
"Our children deserve uninterrupted education, and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure schools remain safe places for learning," he said.
Alausa further commended teachers across the country for their dedication and resilience despite the challenges facing the education sector.
The ministry said it would continue collaborating with state governments, teachers' unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety and safeguard every child's right to quality education under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The industrial action had disrupted learning in public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State for weeks after the Nigeria Union of Teachers directed members to withdraw their services over security concerns following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
