The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 21-day notice to the Federal Government, warning of a potential nationwide strike due to the government’s failure to fulfill longstanding agreements. The notice was issued after ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the University of Ibadan on August 19, 2024.
ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, stated that the union’s demands, which include the implementation of the 2009 re-negotiated agreements and the payment of accumulated academic allowances, have remained unaddressed for over six years. The union also highlighted the urgent need for revitalization funds to improve university infrastructure and expressed concern over the proliferation of new universities without adequate funding.
Despite recent discussions with the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, ASUU remains dissatisfied with the government’s progress in meeting their demands. The 21-day notice serves as a legal prerequisite under labor laws, giving the government a final opportunity to act before the union resorts to industrial action.
ASUU’s history of strikes, with 16 in the past 23 years, underscores the persistent challenges in Nigeria’s higher education sector. The looming strike could once again disrupt academic activities nationwide if the government fails to address ASUU’s concerns within the stipulated period.
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