The Nigeria Union of Teachers has called off its strike in Oyo State public schools after the state government pledged to boost security and rescue abducted teachers and pupils. The union's leadership announced the suspension on Wednesday, directing all teachers back to classrooms from Thursday, July 2, 2026.
Hassan Ajibola Fatai, the union's Oyo State chairman, and secretary Olukayode Salami signed the statement ending the industrial action. They said the decision came after the national leadership reviewed the security crisis and considered appeals from the government and stakeholders.
The abductions in Oriire Local Government Area had sparked the walkout, with teachers demanding action to protect their safety. The government promised concrete measures to prevent further attacks and rescue those still held captive.
Among the commitments, the state pledged to establish a Joint Security Task Force equipped to patrol vulnerable schools and surrounding routes. It also vowed to intensify rescue operations for the missing teachers and students.
The government said it would strengthen the Safe School Initiative through public awareness and early warning systems. It committed to upgrading school infrastructure and improving emergency response mechanisms across the state.
Officials promised psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims and payment of outstanding gratuities to families of deceased teachers. The state also committed to tackling illegal mining and uncontrolled grazing in forest reserves that threaten communities.
Other pledges include speedy prosecution of criminal suspects, enhanced community intelligence gathering, and technology deployment for school security. The government promised to improve welfare for security personnel assigned to school protection duties.
The union commended its members for their discipline and solidarity during the strike period. It also praised the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria for their support.
While welcoming the suspension, the NUT urged teachers to stay alert and report any security threats immediately to authorities. The union said members should obey the law and remain vigilant in their communities.
The NUT stressed it remains committed to protecting teacher welfare and school safety across the state. It said it would keep engaging the government until all security concerns are fully resolved.
