FG REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESOLVING ASUU ISSUES, WARNS AGAINST DISRUPTING ACADEMIC CALENDAR

FG REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESOLVING ASUU ISSUES, WARNS AGAINST DISRUPTING ACADEMIC CALENDAR

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the lingering issues with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) while warning against any action that could disrupt the nation’s academic calendar.

In a joint press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmed, restated the government’s unwavering dedication to constructive engagement with ASUU for a sustainable resolution of all outstanding matters affecting the university system.

According to the statement, the Federal Government has shown “considerable sincerity, patience, and goodwill” in its dialogue with the Union, addressing nearly all the concerns raised. These include the introduction of an increased teaching allowance and major improvements in the conditions of service for academic staff. The remaining issues, the statement added, are matters within the jurisdiction of newly reconstituted university governing councils.

The Ministers expressed disappointment that despite the government’s efforts and timely submission of its position to ASUU, the Union had opted to proceed with a strike rather than continue dialogue. They described this decision as unfair to students and the public, considering the government’s concrete steps and commitment to resolving the challenges.

Reiterating the government’s stance, the Ministers emphasized that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the welfare of university staff and the stability of the academic calendar remain top priorities. They urged ASUU to embrace dialogue as the most effective path to sustainable resolution, noting that government remains open to engagement at all levels.

However, they warned that the “no work, no pay” policy remains in force and would be implemented should academic activities be disrupted. While reaffirming the administration’s goodwill, they noted that the government must also ensure fairness and accountability in the use of public resources.

The statement reassured students, parents, and stakeholders that the Federal Government is committed to maintaining industrial harmony and safeguarding the nation’s tertiary education system.

The Ministers also highlighted ongoing education reforms aimed at strengthening institutional autonomy, improving teaching and research conditions, and promoting innovation across Nigerian universities.

They appealed to ASUU to reconsider its planned strike and return to the dialogue table in the interest of Nigerian students and the future of the education system.