The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, have jointly reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to resolving all outstanding issues with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) through continuous dialogue and constructive engagement.
In a joint statement, the Ministers emphasized that the Federal Government has shown sincerity, patience, and goodwill in its dealings with ASUU, noting that most of the union’s demands have been addressed. These include the introduction of a substantial teaching allowance and significant improvements in the conditions of service for academic staff.
They explained that the few unresolved matters now fall within the jurisdiction of the newly reconstituted governing councils of individual universities, which are empowered to handle internal administrative and governance issues.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring stability in the academic calendar, the Ministers expressed disappointment that ASUU has opted for strike action despite government’s compliance with agreed timelines for dialogue. They described the decision as unfair to students and the public, especially in light of the progress already achieved through negotiation.
The Ministers reiterated that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, government remains committed to the welfare of university staff and to maintaining uninterrupted learning in tertiary institutions. They stressed that dialogue remains the only sustainable means of resolving disputes, and that government remains open to discussions at all levels to prevent further disruption.
However, they cautioned that the “no work, no pay” policy remains an active provision of Nigerian labour law, and the Federal Government will be guided by this law if academic activities are halted in public universities. They added that while government will continue to demonstrate flexibility and goodwill, it must also uphold fairness, accountability, and responsible use of public resources.
Reassuring students, parents, and the general public, the statement affirmed that government is fully committed to industrial harmony in the tertiary education sector. The Ministers appealed to all academic unions to embrace partnership and dialogue rather than confrontation, emphasizing that national interest and students’ welfare must come first.
They further highlighted that the education reform agenda of the Federal Government is aimed at improving teaching and research conditions, strengthening institutional autonomy and university governance, and fostering a climate of mutual respect, innovation, and productivity in the academic community.
The Ministers concluded by urging ASUU to reconsider its stance and return to the negotiation table in the best interest of students and the nation’s education system, assuring that government remains committed to protecting the academic calendar and ensuring uninterrupted learning across all universities.
Elijah Adeyemi
