The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has suspended its withdrawal of services across public primary and secondary schools in the state following renewed engagements with the Oyo State Government and assurances on measures to strengthen security after the recent abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area.

The union announced the suspension in a statement jointly signed on Wednesday by its Oyo State Chairman, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami.

‎According to the statement, the decision followed a directive from the national leadership of the union after reviewing the prevailing security situation and considering appeals by the Oyo State Government and other critical stakeholders.

The union consequently directed all public primary and secondary school teachers across Oyo State to resume official duties from Thursday, July 2, 2026, bringing an end to the industrial action declared in response to the kidnapping of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.

The NUT explained that the decision was taken in the collective interest of teachers, learners and the general public after receiving assurances from the state government that sustained efforts were ongoing to secure the safe release of the abducted victims while strengthening security around schools and surrounding communities.

The union disclosed that the government had outlined several measures to prevent future security breaches. These include intensified rescue efforts for the abducted teachers and learners, the establishment of a well equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, sustained engagement with affected families, psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims, as well as the payment of gratuities and other entitlements to the families of deceased teachers.

Other commitments by the government include strengthening the Safe School Initiative through public sensitisation and early warning systems, improving emergency response mechanisms, dismantling criminal hideouts, upgrading school infrastructure, tackling illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, enhancing community intelligence gathering, ensuring speedy prosecution of criminal suspects, improving the welfare of security personnel, and deploying technology to reinforce security in schools.

‎The union commended its members for their discipline, solidarity and compliance throughout the period of the industrial action. It also appreciated the support of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), describing their cooperation as instrumental in advancing the welfare and security of teachers and learners.

‎While directing members to return to their classrooms, the NUT urged teachers to remain vigilant, comply with the law and promptly report any security threats within their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.

The union reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and security of teachers, stating that it would continue engaging the Oyo State Government until all outstanding concerns relating to the safety of teachers and students are comprehensively addressed.