More than 400 public primary schools across Abuja, the nation’s capital, remain shut due to an ongoing strike by teachers that has stretched beyond 100 days. The prolonged closure has left tens of thousands of children out of school, sparking growing concerns over the future of foundational education in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The industrial action, led by the Abuja chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), stems from unresolved disputes over the implementation of the national minimum wage and a backlog of unpaid salaries. Despite repeated appeals by the teachers, authorities at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have responded largely with political rhetoric and administrative detachment.
“This is not merely a labour standoff—it is a full-blown education emergency,” said legal and education advocate, Jacob O. Sule, Esq. “Children are missing out on critical learning periods, with devastating academic, emotional, and social consequences that could have lifelong effects.”
While Abuja continues to witness significant political activity and billion-naira infrastructure projects, the neglect of public education—especially at the primary level—reveals troubling policy priorities. Sule stressed that while roads and buildings may beautify a city, they do not build futures.
“The future depends on what you do today,” he said, quoting Mahatma Gandhi. “Keeping children out of school today is a dangerous mortgage on the nation’s tomorrow.”
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), which is charged with ensuring access to quality basic education nationwide, has come under criticism for its muted response. Sule urged the Commission to step in more assertively, calling for emergency financial interventions, enforcement of wage obligations, and greater oversight of local education authorities.
He further emphasised the urgent need for a policy recalibration that prioritises the welfare of educators. “No education system can thrive without motivated and well-supported teachers. Their timely and fair remuneration must be treated as a non-negotiable obligation.”
The strike’s prolonged impact has been deeply felt by families, especially those in communities like Kuje and Bwari, where many parents cannot afford private schooling alternatives. For a 9-year-old who has been out of school for three months, the consequences go far beyond missed lessons—they include a growing sense of disconnection from society and opportunity.
Sule also called for a review of the FCT’s budget, urging that funding be reallocated from non-essential construction projects to education. “Public spending must reflect our true national priorities. The glaring absence of adequate investment in basic education in the FCT is indefensible,” he said.
According to him, UBEC must also enforce greater transparency in fund disbursement and work collaboratively with the FCTA to prevent future crises and rebuild public trust.
He concluded with a stern reminder to policymakers: “In the race to develop Abuja, we must not forget who we are building for. Let our legacy be one of open classrooms, empowered teachers, and children whose futures were protected—not postponed.”
The education crisis in Abuja continues, with no resolution in sight. Meanwhile, children’s hopes remain locked behind classroom doors, awaiting action from those elected to safeguard their rights and futures.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.