The Nigeria Union of Teachers has suspended its industrial action across all public primary and secondary schools in Oyo State, directing its members to return to their classrooms on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

According to the union, the decision to suspend the strike followed renewed discussions with the Oyo State Government, which gave fresh assurances on strengthening security measures to protect schools after the recent abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.

In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami, the union revealed that the suspension received full clearance from its national leadership after a thorough review of the current security situation and appeals by state stakeholders.

The industrial action was originally declared to protest the kidnapping of educators and students, but the union chose to halt the strike in the interest of the general public, the learners, and the teachers themselves.

The body said the Oyo State government has committed to an array of safety operations, including intensifying the rescue mission for the missing victims, establishing a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable access roads, and upgrading general school infrastructure.

Furthermore, the government promised to strengthen the Safe School Initiative through improved early warning systems, deploy advanced surveillance technology, provide psychosocial support to rescued victims, and ensure the payment of gratuities to the families of deceased teachers.

While applauding its members and affiliated associations like the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria for their resilience, the union urged all returning educators to maintain high levels of situational awareness.

“The Nigeria Union of Teachers hereby directs all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to resume official duties on Thursday, July 2, 2026,” the union executives stated in their joint release.

“We sincerely appreciate all our members, ANCOPSS, AOPSHON, and other stakeholders for their discipline, solidarity, and unwavering support during this period. Your cooperation has once again demonstrated our collective commitment to the welfare and safety of teachers and learners.”

The union leadership also emphasized that the return to work does not mean they will overlook any future lapses in regional security, urging teachers to actively report unusual movements.

“We urge all teachers to remain vigilant, law-abiding and promptly report any suspicious activities or security threats within their schools and communities to the relevant authorities. Together, we can build safer schools for our children and educators,” the statement noted.