Yemi Obafemi
The Federal Government has welcomed the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, describing the development as a victory for dialogue and collaboration that will restore uninterrupted learning for pupils across the state.
This was contained in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, on behalf of the ministry.
The statement said the resolution followed sustained engagements between 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.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the successful resolution demonstrated 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,” the minister said.
Alausa commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for what he described as exemplary leadership in 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 and placing the interests of learners above other considerations.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to quality education despite security challenges affecting parts of the country, insisting that efforts to disrupt education 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,” he said.
He also paid tribute to teachers across the country for their patriotism, resilience 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 protect every child’s right to uninterrupted, quality education in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
