Nigerian government and ASUU seek to prevent strike at universities

The Federal Government has set up a committee to address the contentious issues raised by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

The move follows a recent ultimatum given by the union to the federal government to respond to its demands.

The ASUU leadership and representatives of the Federal Government led by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, in a closed-door meeting last month agreed to set up a committee to review the agreement reached by both parties.Read more

The committee is expected to meet on Wednesday.

ASUU Vice President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday.

He said: “The meeting is over; committees have been formed to resolve the IPPIS/EAA and salary issues. The committees will meet on September 11 next week.”

READ ALSO:Nigerian government, ASUU begin talks to avert university strike

The move is aimed at meeting ASUU’s demands, which include improving the welfare and funding of universities, as well as stopping the proliferation of universities across the country.

This demand was reiterated at the union’s national executive council meeting held at the University of Ibadan on August 19, where university lecturers threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over the federal government’s failure to honour the 2009 renegotiated agreement.

Responding to ASUU’s ultimatum, Mamman admitted that most of the controversial issues have been around since 1981.

However, he assured that the government was addressing the issue, citing the President’s commitment to finding a permanent solution.

He said: “Most of ASUU’s demands started in 1981. And almost every administration has had many ASUU strikes. However, the President made a commitment during the campaign that a permanent solution would be provided this time, and he has shown it in his steps and actions.”

Hw appealed to ASUU to approach the negotiating table with an open mind and ensure that the interests of all parties are represented in the matter.

Nigerian Govt, ASUU move to prevent strike at universities first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.