In a significant show of solidarity, the Workers’ Forum, a coalition of organized labor groups across Nigeria, has officially declared its full support for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)’s call to shut down the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in response to the ongoing strike by public school teachers.
The strike, now entering its third week, was sparked by what educators describe as years of neglect, unpaid entitlements, dilapidated infrastructure, and unfulfilled promises by the FCT administration. With thousands of students out of school and no tangible government response in sight, the NLC announced plans for a mass shutdown of Abuja if urgent action is not taken.
“The welfare of teachers directly affects the future of our children and the integrity of our education system,” said Comrade Samuel Barde, spokesperson for the Workers’ Forum. “We can no longer stay silent as public education crumbles. The FCT must act now.”
The Workers’ Forum emphasized that the planned shutdown, if executed, will involve peaceful demonstrations, nationwide mobilization, and coordinated actions across key sectors to demand accountability and respect for workers’ rights.
Organizers are calling on stakeholders, including parents, civil society, and community leaders, to unite in defense of public education. “This is not just about teachers—it’s about justice, equity, and the right of every Nigerian child to learn in a safe, well-supported environment,” Barde added.