FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has expressed his intent to use 10% of the internally generated revenue (IGR) allocated to Area Councils to pay striking primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory.

The teachers, under the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) FCT Wing, resumed their strike on September 18, 2024, demanding the implementation of a 40% Peculiar Allowance and payment of 25 months’ Minimum Wage Arrears.

Wike, during an inspection of the Apo-Karshi Road project, emphasized that no serious government would allow the strike to continue, as it negatively impacts children.

Wike disclosed that he had invited the Area Council Chairmen and NUT leadership to resolve the issue, stressing his unwillingness to allow the strike to persist. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the teachers are paid to prevent further disruptions in the education system, adding that he would intervene if necessary by redirecting IGR funds.

In a related development, Wike discussed the ongoing Apo-Karshi Road project, noting that he had given the contractor, Messrs Khakatar Limited, the benefit of the doubt regarding their commitment to completing the project by April 2025. While expressing reservations, he acknowledged the road’s significance in reducing traffic and boosting economic activity in the area.