The Save Public Education Campaign (SPEC) has criticised the Nigerian government over the indefinite closure of public primary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following an ongoing strike by teachers.
In a statement signed by its co-conveners, Vivian Bellown and Dimeji Macaulay, the group described the situation as a serious failure of leadership, saying it reflects years of neglect of teachers’ welfare and the education sector.
According to SPEC, the shutdown has left thousands of pupils at home with no clear timeline for resumption, worsening the disruption of learning across public schools in the FCT.
The group warned that the development could further deepen Nigeria’s already severe out-of-school children crisis, estimated at over 33 million.
While expressing support for the striking teachers, SPEC said their demands—covering unpaid entitlements, improved working conditions, and proper funding for education—were both legitimate and long overdue.
It stressed that teachers cannot be expected to perform effectively under poor conditions while their welfare is ignored.
The organisation called on the FCT Administration to urgently resolve the issues through meaningful engagement with the teachers’ unions, rather than repeated promises that are not backed by action.
It also cautioned that continued closure of schools would worsen inequality, weaken the future of young Nigerians, and place additional strain on society.
SPEC further urged parents, civil society groups, and the general public to demand accountability and push for a properly funded public education system.
“Enough is enough. Fund public education. Respect teachers’ rights. Re-open schools now,” the group stated.
