Closed classroom in the FCT as teachers’ strike disrupts education for thousands of children.
The prolonged teachers’ strike in the Federal Capital Territory is leaving thousands of children out of school, with experts warning of widening educational inequalities, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Public primary and secondary schools in the FCT have remained closed since the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) FCT chapter joined the indefinite industrial action declared by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) of the Federal Capital Territory Administration on January 26, 2026.
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) said the strike threatens to deepen the digital and learning divide, as children in rural communities often lack access to alternative education options, including online learning.
In a statement signed by Executive Director CITAD Yinusa Ya’u and released through Program Manager Yesmin Salako, acknowledges that teachers’ grievances including unpaid wage awards, promotion arrears, non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund contributions, and rural and hazard allowances are legitimate.
However, Ya’u emphasized that prolonged school closures have disproportionate consequences for students, warning that extended disruptions could increase social vulnerabilities such as child labor and early marriage.
CITAD called on the FCTA leadership, JUAC, NUT, and federal authorities to prioritize urgent negotiations and explore interim measures that would allow teachers to return to classrooms while comprehensive agreements are finalized.
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“Education is the foundation of empowerment. Every day that children stay away from school is a lost opportunity for learning and development,” Ya’u said.
The organisation also urged all parties to adhere to ongoing court directives while working toward a sustainable resolution.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern over the long-term impact of the strike, highlighting that delays in schooling could affect thousands of FCT students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, well beyond the current academic session.
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