FCT Workers and Teachers Suspend Strike After Wage Dispute Resolution
The Local Education Authority (LEA) primary school teachers and area council workers in the Federal Capital Territory have decided to suspend their strike following the resolution of a dispute over the non-implementation of the N70,000 new minimum wage by the six area council chairmen. This decision comes after President of NULGE in the FCT, Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim Kabi, announced the strike suspension during a joint press briefing held at Teachers House in Gwagwalada, Abuja, on Friday. The announcement was made after discussions with executives of both the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and intervention by FCT Minister Nyemson Wike and State Minister Hajiya Mariya Mahmoud.
Resolutions and Agreements
Following extensive deliberations, several resolutions were reached that led to the suspension of the strike. One key resolution was the establishment of monthly consultative meetings between the council chairmen and joint unions to address worker challenges and foster a stronger relationship. Additionally, it was agreed that the new minimum wage for all area council staff, including primary school teachers, would be implemented in February 2025 without fail.
Furthermore, a significant agreement was made to deduct 50% of the 10% FCT Internal Revenue Service accruable to the area councils for the payment of new national minimum wage arrears starting from March 2025. A tripartite committee, chaired by Minister of State for FCT Hajiya Mariya Mahmoud, will be formed to meet with FCT Minister Nyemson Wike to ensure the implementation of the 40% peculiar allowance and 25-35% salary increase for primary school teachers and area council staff.
Moreover, pending entitlements for area council staff as outlined in a signed Memorandum of Understanding dated October 23, 2024, will be implemented, along with the payment of primary school teachers’ promotion and annual increment arrears in accordance with agreed terms from March 18, 2022. These agreements collectively led to the joint unions of the FCT NUT and NULGE deciding to suspend the ongoing strike across the six councils of the FCT immediately.
Potential Consequences
While the strike has been suspended, the joint unions issued a warning that failure by the area council chairmen to adhere to the agreed resolutions would result in the resumption of the strike. This caution underscores the importance of maintaining trust and accountability in fulfilling promises made to workers. The delicate balance between labor demands and management commitments remains a critical aspect of ensuring industrial harmony and fair treatment for all employees.
Conclusion
In light of the recent developments and agreements reached between the joint unions and area council chairmen, the FCT workers and teachers have decided to temporarily halt their strike action. This decision reflects a collaborative effort to address wage-related concerns and improve working conditions for employees across the six councils of the FCT. As discussions continue and commitments are honored, the hope is that a lasting resolution will be achieved to benefit all parties involved. The importance of effective communication, mutual respect, and timely action cannot be overstated in ensuring a harmonious and productive work environment for everyone.
