The Federal Government has assured Nigerians of its commitment to keeping schools safe following the suspension of the teachers’ strike in Oyo State, reaffirming that no child should be denied access to education because of insecurity.
The government said it would pursue the commitment by strengthening collaboration with state governments, teachers’ unions, security agencies and other stakeholders to improve school safety and safeguard every child’s right to quality education.
The assurance comes after the resolution of the industrial action through sustained engagement involving 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 across the state.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, made the commitment in a statement issued on Thursday, describing the resolution of the strike as a victory for dialogue, collaboration and the education of Nigerian children.
“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 Nigeria Union of Teachers and the Government of Oyo State,” the minister said.
Alausa commended Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for his leadership and commitment to resolving the dispute through dialogue.
He also praised the National President of NUT, Comrade Audu Amba, the union’s Zonal President, Comrade Hassan Fatai, the leadership of the Oyo State wing of the NUT and members of its executive committee for placing the interests of learners above all else.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting education despite prevailing security challenges, the minister said schools would remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.
“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 resilience, patriotism and dedication to nurturing future generations, describing them as indispensable partners in national development.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working 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 quality education under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.