For over three months, pupils in public primary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) stayed at home due to a teachers’ strike that began on March 21, 2025. The teachers were demanding better pay, including the N70,000 minimum wage, wage increases, and other outstanding entitlements.
The strike was only called off on July 9 after the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, intervened. Unfortunately, many students have lost valuable time, and some may never return to school. Many experts and stakeholders have faulted the government’s sincerity and concern about teachers’ welfare in the FCT. They noted that while teachers and council workers face poor working conditions, the government has spent billions on infrastructure projects, raising questions about its priorities.
Experts argue that education is a fundamental right and should be adequately funded. Nigeria currently has about 18.5 million out-of-school children. The situation shows a lack of seriousness in handling basic education. Stakeholders urge the government to stop neglecting teachers and invest in schools to prevent more damage to Nigeria’s future.
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