Wike Explains IGR Deduction for Teachers’ Pay

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday in Abuja defended the decision to retain 10 per cent of the Internally Generated Revenue meant for area councils, saying the funds are being used to clear unpaid salaries of primary school teachers and end frequent strikes in the territory.

During a media meeting with journalists, Wike said the move was taken to address a long-standing problem that has kept pupils out of school. He explained that the deduction is for a limited period and is focused on settling outstanding payments owed to teachers, especially at the primary level.He said the lack of payment had led to repeated industrial actions, affecting learning across the FCT.

According to him, the administration decided to step in so that teachers can return to classrooms and normal academic activities can resume.The minister noted that a fixed amount is being released monthly to gradually clear the arrears.

He added that returning the funds to the area councils without solving the salary issue would only lead to more strikes and disruption in schools.Wike also dismissed concerns that the deduction would affect ongoing projects or payments to contractors, stating that education and the welfare of teachers must come first.

He said building facilities would not make sense if students are not in school to benefit from them.He further stated that many of the area councils do not have the financial strength to handle the situation on their own, which made the intervention necessary. He said the main aim is to stabilise the education system and ensure teachers are paid regularly.

The minister assured residents that the arrangement is temporary and will end once the salary backlog is cleared. He added that normal revenue distribution will resume after the issue has been fully resolved.