FG warns ASUU, warns against new disruptions to academic calendar

The Federal Government has warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) against another strike, warning that any disruption to the academic calendar will not be tolerated.

In a joint statement issued by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, the government reiterated its commitment to “constructive engagement” with ASUU and reiterated its determination to find long-term solutions to all outstanding issues affecting Nigeria’s university system.

According to the ministers, the government has “demonstrated sincerity, patience and good faith” in its dealings with the union and has “substantially addressed all the issues raised by ASUU.” This, they said, included the introduction of increased teaching allowances and significant improvements in conditions of service for academic staff.

They explained that “some remaining issues now fall under the jurisdiction of each university’s newly created governing board,” and stated that the board is expected to address institution-specific issues.

However, the statement expressed disappointment that despite the government continuing dialogue and meeting agreed deadlines, ASUU preferred industrial action to negotiations. The ministers described the move as “unfair to students and society,” given what they said was the government’s demonstrable commitment to resolving the issue.

They emphasized that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s New Hope Agenda, the government remains focused on improving staff welfare and ensuring academic stability in all tertiary institutions.

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“While the government continues to demonstrate good faith and flexibility, it will not abdicate its responsibility to uphold fairness and accountability in the use of public resources,” the statement said, warning that the “no work, no pay” policy would be strictly enforced if lecturers went on strike.

To reassure Nigerian students, parents and the general public, the ministers emphasized that the Federal Government remains committed to “maintaining industrial harmony across tertiary institutions.” They called on academic unions to “apply partnership and dialogue rather than confrontation in the collective interests of the education sector.”

They further underscored that ongoing education reforms aim to “improve teaching and research conditions, strengthen institutional autonomy, and encourage innovation in a respectful and productive environment.”

The statement concluded with a direct call on ASUU to “reconsider its position and return to the negotiating table in the best interests of students and the future of the Nigerian education system.”