The Oyo State Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers has suspended its industrial action and directed public primary and secondary school teachers across the state to resume work on Thursday.
The union had earlier embarked on the strike following the abduction of teachers and pupils from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, citing growing insecurity in schools.
Announcing the suspension in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan, the union said the decision followed renewed engagements with the Oyo State Government, appeals from critical stakeholders and a directive from the national leadership of the NUT after reviewing the prevailing security situation.
The statement, jointly signed by the state Chairman, Fatai Hassan, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami, said the government had assured the union of intensified efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and learners while strengthening security across schools and surrounding communities.
According to the union, the state government also pledged to reinforce the Safe School Initiative through increased public awareness, improved early warning systems and enhanced emergency response mechanisms.
It added that the government promised to dismantle criminal hideouts, address illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, improve school infrastructure, strengthen community intelligence gathering, ensure the prompt prosecution of criminal suspects and deploy technology to bolster security in schools.
The union further disclosed that the government committed to intensifying rescue operations for the kidnapped victims, establishing a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, providing continuous support to affected families and offering psychosocial rehabilitation for rescued victims.
It also said the government pledged to pay gratuities and other entitlements due to the families of teachers who lost their lives.
The NUT commended its members, the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria for their discipline, solidarity and compliance throughout the strike.
It described their support as crucial in advancing the welfare and security of teachers and learners.
The union urged teachers to remain vigilant, comply with security guidelines and promptly report suspicious activities within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.
It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and security of teachers, saying it would continue to engage the government until all concerns relating to the safety of teachers and students are fully addressed.