IBADAN/Nigeria: The Nigeria Union of Teachers has suspended its withdrawal of services across public schools in Oyo State following fresh engagements with the state government and renewed assurances on measures to enhance security after the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.
The decision paves the way for the resumption of academic activities in public primary and secondary schools across the state after the industrial action was declared in protest against the kidnapping of teachers and learners, an incident that raised widespread concerns over the safety of schools.
In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the union said the suspension followed a directive from its national leadership after a review of the prevailing security situation and appeals by the Oyo State Government and other critical stakeholders.
The union consequently directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in the state to resume official duties from Thursday, July 2, 2026.
According to the statement, the decision was taken in the overall interest of teachers, students and the public after the state government assured the union that concerted efforts were underway to secure the release of the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.
The government, the union disclosed, has pledged to intensify rescue operations for the kidnapped teachers and learners while establishing a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol schools and major access routes across the state.
Other commitments include sustained engagement with the families of the victims, provision of psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued persons, 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 expanded public awareness campaigns, improved early warning systems and enhanced emergency response mechanisms.
Additional measures include dismantling criminal hideouts, upgrading security infrastructure in schools, tackling illegal mining and open grazing activities in forest reserves, strengthening community intelligence gathering, ensuring the speedy prosecution of criminal suspects, improving the welfare of security personnel and deploying modern technology to reinforce school security.
The union commended its members for their discipline and solidarity throughout the industrial action, while also appreciating the support of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria, describing their cooperation as instrumental in advancing the campaign for the safety and welfare of teachers and learners.
While directing teachers to return to their classrooms, the NUT urged members to remain security conscious, comply with lawful directives and promptly report suspicious activities or security threats within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.
The union reaffirmed that the welfare and safety of teachers remain non-negotiable, assuring members that it would continue to engage the government until all outstanding security concerns affecting schools in the state are comprehensively addressed.
