Teachers and students stayed away from LEA Ijayapi Primary School and LEA Byazhin Primary School in the federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja on Monday.
As a result, both schools shut down completely under compliance with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) directive.
At about 7:55 a.m., the schools were deserted. No teachers or pupils were present.
In addition, classrooms remained locked, while doors and windows stayed shut.
The State Wing Executive Council of the NUT ordered teachers across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to begin an indefinite strike.
This decision followed an emergency meeting held in Gwagwalada, Abuja, on Friday.
Furthermore, the directive was issued in a communiqué signed by Abdullahi Shafa, Margaret Jethro, and Ibukun Adekeye.
The union therefore instructed all teachers to comply fully and await further directives.
Meanwhile, parents were advised to keep their children at home until further notice.
Why Teachers Went on Strike
The union explained that the strike followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
This ultimatum expired on March 29.
Although the government implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage, teachers still raised concerns.
They also acknowledged payment of nine-month salary arrears to primary school teachers.
However, they insisted that several key issues remain unresolved.
Unresolved Welfare Demands
In addition, the union highlighted delays in implementing a committee report submitted in August 2025.
The report has not yet been released or implemented.
Consequently, teachers are demanding its full release and execution.
They also want the removal of “vacancies” conditions tied to promotions.
Moreover, they called for a review of the 2024 promotion exercise conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission.
Failed Talks and Expired Deadlines
Previously, the government set up a committee on July 7, 2025, to resolve outstanding issues.
However, the union said the report has not been acted upon.
Despite an additional 28-day grace period, authorities did not respond.
As a result, tensions increased between both sides.
Strike Continues Indefinitely
Finally, the union declared that all public primary and secondary school teachers in the FCT will remain on strike.
They confirmed that the action will continue until their demands are fully met.
According to the union, all engagement efforts failed to produce results.
Therefore, teachers say they have no choice but to continue the strike.
