By Julian Osamoto
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has expressed concern over the ongoing teachers’ strike in the Federal Capital Territory.
CITAD warned that the prolonged closure of public schools is affecting access to education, particularly for children in rural and underserved communities.
Public primary and secondary schools in the FCT have remained closed since 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 on January 26, 2026.
A statement signed by the executive Director Yinusa Ya’u and made available by the Program Manager Yesmin Salako, CITAD acknowledges the welfare concerns raised by teachers and other FCTA workers, including unpaid wage awards, promotion arrears, non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund deductions, as well as hazard and rural allowances.
The organisation noted that while the grievances are legitimate, the continued shutdown of schools is having a disproportionate impact on children in rural communities where alternative learning options are limited.
According to Ya’u, extended school closures may widen existing gaps in digital access and learning opportunities and could expose children to broader social risks.
CITAD Boss called on the FCTA leadership, JUAC, the Nigeria Union of Teachers, and relevant federal authorities to prioritise dialogue and negotiations aimed at resolving the dispute.
The group also urged stakeholders to consider interim measures that could allow a return to classrooms while discussions continue, adding that the best interests of children should remain central to all decisions.
CITAD further appealed to parties to respect ongoing court interventions while working toward a sustainable resolution of the dispute.
The teachers’ strike has left thousands of students across the FCT out of school, with education stakeholders expressing concern over the long-term implications of learning disruptions.
