Education in Crisis: Wike Holds High-Stakes Meeting to Avert FCT School Shutdown

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has convened a crucial meeting with the chairmen of FCT area councils and the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT chapter, to tackle the ongoing strike by primary school teachers over unresolved welfare-related grievances.

Wike announced the meeting on Thursday in Abuja after inspecting projects in preparation for President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office. His remarks came in response to a protest staged by primary school teachers on Wednesday morning.

Describing the situation as “very unfortunate,” Wike expressed shock at the conduct of the area council chairmen, questioning their sense of responsibility and conscience.

He revealed that, despite receiving allocated funds specifically meant for teachers’ salaries and entitlements, the chairmen had failed to make the necessary payments.

“They were unable to pay them. In fact, I received the report just yesterday and have summoned them all for a meeting,” Wike said.

He criticized their apparent lack of empathy, stating:

“I don’t understand how people can lack conscience. These are the same teachers taking care of our children, yet you feel no remorse not paying them their dues.”

Wike clarified that while the FCT Administration oversees general governance, primary education is under the jurisdiction of the area councils, making them solely responsible for the teachers’ welfare.

He appealed to the NUT for patience and pledged swift action to resolve the impasse.

Earlier, Abdullahi Shafa, Chairman of the NUT FCT, acknowledged Wike’s efforts, particularly the ₦4.1 billion he released for the payment of teachers. However, he accused the area council chairmen of misappropriating the funds, and urged the National Assembly and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to step in and hold those responsible accountable.

The teachers are demanding the payment of the new minimum wage, 40% Peculiar Allowance, and other pending benefits, including 25% and 35% salary increases, and the ₦35,000 wage award.