The Nigeria Union of Teachers has suspended the strike action by public school teachers in Oyo State, directing members to return to classrooms from Thursday, July 2, 2026.
The strike was triggered by the abduction of more than 40 teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area, a development that raised serious concerns over school safety across the state.
According to a statement jointly signed by Oyo NUT Chairman Hassan Fatai and Secretary Olukayode Salami, the decision followed renewed engagements with the state government and directives from the union’s national leadership.
The union said the suspension came after reviewing the security situation and considering assurances from the Oyo State government on efforts to improve safety in schools and secure the release of the abducted victims.
Among the commitments made by the government are intensified rescue operations, the deployment of a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, and improved emergency response systems.
Other measures include strengthening the Safe School Initiative, upgrading school infrastructure, improving intelligence gathering, tackling criminal hideouts, and deploying technology to improve school security.
The union also disclosed that authorities promised psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims, alongside continued engagement with affected families. Payment of gratuities and entitlements to families of deceased teachers was also listed among government commitments.
NUT commended teachers, the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria for maintaining discipline and solidarity during the industrial action.
While calling on teachers to resume duties, the union urged members to remain vigilant and promptly report security threats within their schools and communities.
Seyi Makinde had earlier assured families and residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
More than a month after the kidnapping, the victims remain in captivity, though authorities continue to express confidence in ongoing rescue operations.
