The Oyo teachers strike has been suspended following successful negotiations involving the Federal Ministry of Education, the Oyo State Government and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), with the Federal Government describing the resolution as a major victory for dialogue and uninterrupted education.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the development, stating that the agreement has cleared the way for teachers to return to classrooms and resume academic activities across Oyo State. According to the minister, the outcome reflects the commitment of all parties to place the education and welfare of schoolchildren 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,” Alausa said.
The minister commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for resolving the dispute through negotiations rather than confrontation.
He also praised 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 union’s Oyo State chapter and members of its executive committee for their role in ending the industrial action. According to Alausa, their willingness to prioritise the interests of pupils helped bring the dispute to a peaceful conclusion.
Speaking on broader education issues, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that insecurity does not interrupt learning across the country. He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains determined to protect schools and prevent criminal activities from denying children access to education.
“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 stated.
The Oyo teachers strike resolution comes as the Federal Government renewed its appreciation for teachers nationwide, describing them as patriotic nation-builders whose dedication continues to support the country’s education sector.
The Ministry of Education also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to improve school safety, maintain industrial harmony and ensure uninterrupted access to quality education. The ministry said these efforts align with the education objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The suspension of the Oyo teachers strike marks the end of the industrial dispute and allows thousands of pupils across the state to return to normal classroom learning, with the Federal Government expressing optimism that continued dialogue will remain the preferred approach for resolving future labour issues in the education sector.
