Story: WRITTEN BY OKAFOR JOSEPH OCTOBER 13,2025

The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on an industrial strike, urging the union to prioritise the future of students and embrace continued dialogue as the best path toward resolving disputes in the education sector.

In a joint statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, and the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, said the government has presented a comprehensive offer to ASUU and is still awaiting its official response.

According to the statement, the proposal addresses key issues raised by the union — including improved working conditions, institutional autonomy, and staff welfare — while demonstrating President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening higher education.

“All issues concerning the review of conditions of service have been adequately addressed, except those under the jurisdiction of individual university councils, which are currently being handled,” the ministers said.

They added that the government has approved a restructured Teaching Allowance aimed at recognising the value of academic work and motivating lecturers in federal universities.

Despite these efforts, the ministers expressed disappointment that ASUU appears determined to proceed with the planned strike, even as discussions remain open and active.

“The Federal Government has approached this matter with sincerity and commitment, as seen in its policy actions and financial interventions,” the statement read. “We urge ASUU to reciprocate and embrace dialogue in the interest of students and the university system.”

The ministers reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring stability across public universities, stressing that the administration’s education reforms are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional efficiency.

They also reminded the union that certain aspects of its demands — such as appointments, promotions, and internal governance — fall under the authority of university governing councils, not the federal ministry.

“We respect university autonomy, but governance issues must be resolved at the institutional level in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

The ministers further cautioned that the “No Work, No Pay” rule remains a valid labour policy and will be enforced if ASUU proceeds with industrial action.

“While the government remains open to dialogue, it will not hesitate to apply existing labour laws to protect the integrity of the academic system and prevent disruptions,” the statement warned.

They reassured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration is steadfast in its efforts to revitalise universities, improve lecturers’ welfare, and maintain a stable academic calendar.

“Our students must stay in school. The future of our children and the progress of our universities must take precedence over disputes. We remain open to constructive engagement to consolidate ongoing reforms,” the ministers concluded.