The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended the industrial action that disrupted academic activities in public schools across Oyo State for several weeks, after receiving fresh assurances from the state government on measures to improve security around public schools.
Made public on Wednesday, the decision paves the way for public primary and secondary school teachers across the state to return to their classrooms on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the NUT said the suspension of the strike followed a directive from its national leadership after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals from the Oyo State Government and other stakeholders.
The union explained that the decision was taken in the overall interest of teachers, pupils, students and the public after the government assured it that sustained efforts were being made to secure the release of the abducted teachers and learners while strengthening security across schools and neighbouring communities.
According to the statement, the government pledged to intensify rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped victims and establish a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and major access routes.
Other commitments made by the government include sustained engagement with families of the abducted victims, psychosocial support and rehabilitation for those rescued, and the payment of gratuities and other entitlements to the families of deceased teachers.
The government also promised to strengthen the Safe School Initiative through public awareness campaigns and improved early warning systems, enhance emergency response mechanisms, dismantle criminal hideouts, upgrade school infrastructure, and tackle illegal mining and open grazing activities in forest reserves.
Additional measures include improving community-based intelligence gathering, ensuring the swift prosecution of criminal suspects, enhancing the welfare of security personnel, and deploying technology to reinforce security in schools across the state.
The union expressed appreciation to its members for their discipline and solidarity throughout the strike, noting that their commitment helped draw attention to the need for improved protection of teachers and learners.
It also commended the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON) for their cooperation and support during the industrial action.
While directing teachers to resume their duties immediately, the union urged members to remain vigilant, comply with the law and promptly report any security concerns within their schools and host communities to the relevant authorities.
The NUT reaffirmed that it remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and security of teachers, adding that it will continue engaging the Oyo State government until all outstanding concerns relating to the safety of teachers and students are comprehensively addressed.
