The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a fresh strike warning to the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) over the government’s failure to fulfill long-standing agreements. The union has given a 14-day ultimatum, demanding immediate action on key issues affecting Nigeria’s university system.
Why ASUU Is Threatening Another Strike
The threat of a nationwide ASUU strike in 2025 stems from unresolved demands dating back to the 2009 ASUU-FG agreement. Despite years of negotiations and multiple promises, ASUU says the government has shown little commitment to addressing the following concerns:
1. Renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement
ASUU has pushed for the finalization of the renegotiated 2009 agreement, which addresses lecturers’ welfare, funding for universities, and improved infrastructure.
2. Payment of Withheld Salaries
Lecturers are demanding the release of over three months of salaries withheld during the 2022 ASUU strike, in addition to unpaid wages for sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct staff.
3. Rejection of IPPIS and Support for UTAS
ASUU insists that the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) be replaced with its homegrown alternative, University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS), for better payroll management.
4. Release of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA)
Despite partial allocations in the 2023 federal budget, the Earned Academic Allowances remain unpaid, contributing to the mounting tension between the union and the government.
5. Funding for University Revitalization
ASUU is demanding full implementation of the budgeted revitalization funds meant to improve Nigeria’s public university infrastructure.
6. University Autonomy and Governance
The union criticized the FG for undermining university autonomy, particularly through the proliferation of universities and the dissolution of governing councils without due process.
Federal Government’s Response
The Federal Ministry of Education, led by Dr. Morufu Alausa, has appealed to ASUU and other academic unions to embrace dialogue over industrial action. The government attributes delays to financial constraints and ongoing budget reviews but claims it is working to meet ASUU’s demands.
What This Means for Nigerian Students
A nationwide strike would again disrupt academic activities across Nigeria’s public universities. Students may face indefinite delays in graduation and academic progression, further affecting the country’s already strained education sector.
What Happens Next?
ASUU has warned that failure to meet its demands within the given ultimatum will lead to a total and indefinite nationwide strike. The union has urged stakeholders and the public to hold the Federal Government accountable for any breakdown in university education.
The ASUU strike issue seems to be a recurring problem that deeply affects both students and the education system. It’s frustrating to see how these negotiations drag on without a lasting solution. The government needs to prioritize education and address lecturers’ welfare seriously. Students are the ones suffering the most, with their futures hanging in the balance. How long will it take for both parties to reach a compromise? The revitalization funds are crucial, but their implementation seems to be a major hurdle. Do you think the government is doing enough to resolve this crisis, or is there more that can be done to push for a permanent solution?