By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has addressed the ongoing strike by primary school teachers in the Territory, expressing regret and pledging to find a swift resolution. In a press statement from Anthony Ogunleye, the Director of Press, Office of Minister, the Minister made the pledge in Abuja on Thursday while addressing journalists shortly after a routine inspection of ongoing critical projects across the city center.
According to Wiki, the matter of the teachers’ strike came up two days ago during a meeting with the Area Council Chairmen and the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, to discuss security issues. He immediately directed the Minister of State to engage with the teachers to understand their concerns. The Minister acknowledged the teachers’ demands for the implementation of the national minimum wage, assuring that the administration will work with the Area Councils to ensure compliance.
Wike emphasized the importance of dialogue and consultation, urging the teachers to consider the impact of the strike on FCT children. He stated, “It’s really unfortunate that they have gone on strike over this issue of minimum wage. But we will make sure that the teachers will go back. We will do everything we can to see that the Area Councils implement the minimum wage as approved by the National Assembly.”
In addition to addressing the teachers’ strike, Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the timely completion of ongoing infrastructural projects across the FCT. He inspected several project sites, including the ongoing rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), the construction of Collector Road CN8, and the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal office complex.
The Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of the projects, anticipating the handing over of the ICC by Julius Berger by the end of April or May this year. He also commended the contractors for their evident skill and dedication, while pledging the government’s commitment to providing consistent and sufficient funding.
