By Mustapha Salisu
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing strike by teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), calling for an immediate resolution to safeguard the right to education, especially for children in rural and underserved communities.
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 (FCTA) on January 26, 2026. As a result, public primary and secondary schools across the FCT have remained closed, leaving thousands of pupils without access to formal education.
CITAD noted that the strike, which comes after a prolonged disruption of academic activities in 2025, is worsening the educational challenges faced by children from vulnerable backgrounds. The organization recognized the legitimate grievances of teachers and other FCTA workers, including unpaid wage awards, promotion arrears, unremitted pension and National Housing Fund deductions, as well as unpaid hazard and rural allowances.
“These unresolved issues undermine the morale and effectiveness of educators who are central to building an educated society,” CITAD stated.
The group, however, warned that the continued closure of schools poses severe consequences for children in rural FCT communities, where access to alternative learning platforms is limited or non-existent. CITAD stressed that the situation widens the digital divide, deprives children of foundational learning, and exposes them to social risks such as child labor and early marriage.
To address the crisis, CITAD urged all parties involved — including the FCTA leadership under the Honourable Minister, JUAC, NUT, and relevant federal authorities — to prioritize dialogue and good-faith negotiations aimed at resolving the outstanding welfare and entitlement issues without further delay.
The organization also proposed interim measures such as phased payments or emergency interventions to allow teachers to return to classrooms while discussions continue.
“Education is the bedrock of empowerment. When teachers’ welfare fails, learning suffers, and society pays the price,” the statement added.
CITAD further appealed to stakeholders to consider the best interests of children as paramount and comply with recent court interventions while working toward a sustainable resolution of the dispute.