The Nigerian Union of Teachers in Abia State has suspended its planned indefinite strike after holding a two-day technical meeting with the state government.
The decision followed discussions with the Acting Secretary to the Abia State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, and was announced in a statement issued on Friday.
The statement was jointly signed by the Abia NUT Chairman, Madu Friday, and the State Secretary, Mrs Nnenna Okonkwo.
The union had earlier issued a seven-day ultimatum on January 5, 2026, warning that teachers would down tools if the government failed to address their welfare concerns.
Friday said Governor Alex Otti stepped in after becoming aware of the issues and directed the Acting Secretary to the State Government to engage the union.
He explained that the intervention led to negotiations between the government and the NUT, which produced a Memorandum of Action.
According to the statement, “All successful teachers on the service elongation policy of 65/40 years should be reinstated immediately and paid at least two months’ salary to demonstrate the government’s commitment.”
It also stated that, “Immediate issuance of Gen.35 for the 2022/2023 promotion to teachers who scored 60 per cent and above within the first week of schools’ resumption. These are to be collected from the various LGEAs.”
The union added that the Teachers’ Salary Structure allowance of 27.5 per cent would now be included for primary school teachers.
“Inclusion of TSS, amounting to 27.5 per cent of basic salary, for primary school teachers will reflect in the January 2026 salary,” the statement said.
On wages, the union said the new minimum wage and consequential adjustments would take effect immediately.
“Minimum wage and consequential adjustment for senior secondary school teachers will be reflected in the January 2026 salary, with arrears paid subsequently,” it added.
The statement further noted that leave allowances would be paid once outstanding issues were resolved, while a committee had been set up to address salary arrears, harmonisation and running costs within seven working days.
Friday said after the talks, the union held an emergency State Working Committee meeting and agreed to suspend the ultimatum to give the government time to implement the agreements.
He said, “On that note, the NUT wishes to appreciate our teacher-friendly governor for his swift intervention. The union also extends its unalloyed gratitude to the acting SSG, who exhibited his prowess in resolving the lingering issues.”
He also thanked the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Labour Matters, and the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education for their roles.
The union confirmed that schools would reopen as scheduled.
“The union therefore upholds the resumption of schools on Monday, January 12, 2026, as directed by the state government. Teachers are encouraged to continue to be law-abiding and committed in the discharge of their duties,” the statement said.
