Nigeria’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has launched a two‑week warning strike, accusing the federal government of ignoring its unresolved demands. The decision was announced by ASUU’s National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, who said the union had given a 14‑day ultimatum which expired without satisfactory action.
The dispute centers on several key issues, including:
- Completing and signing the renegotiated 2009 FGN‑ASUU Agreement
- Paying three and a half months of withheld salaries
- Securing sustainable funding and revitalization for public universities
- Stopping alleged “victimisation” of lecturers at LASU, KSU (now Prince Abubakar Audu University), FUTO, and others
Prof. Piwuna stated that recent proposals from the government were “provocative and inconsistent” with previous drafts. He warned that if the strike fails to force action, a “total and comprehensive strike” could follow.
Meanwhile, the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has refused to join the strike. Its national president, Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, said his members see no grounds for industrial action and remain at their posts.
Efforts to avert the strike included a meeting convened by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa and Labour Minister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, but ASUU reportedly remained evasive. The government also accused ASUU of refusing a face‑to‑face meeting, ignoring repeated calls, and proceeding with the strike while dialogue was still possible.
Students and stakeholders have expressed concern over renewed disruption in the education sector. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), through its PRO Comrade Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, has urged swift resolution. With talks stalled and tensions rising, the strike threatens to plunge academic operations in Nigeria’s universities into further uncertainty.
