The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on an industrial strike, emphasising that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable path toward resolving all outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.
In a joint statement, the
Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the
Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai'd Ahmad,
disclosed that the Federal Government has made a comprehensive offer to the
union and is still awaiting ASUU's official response.
They emphasised that the offer
addresses the union's primary concerns, including working conditions,
institutional governance, and staff welfare.
The Ministers noted that the
administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved a robust
Teaching Allowance designed to reflect the value of academic work and motivate
lecturers across public universities.
"All matters relating to the
review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within
the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are
actively being handled. The Federal Government remains open and committed to
continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is
received," the statement read.
They emphasised that the federal
government has approached the matter with demonstrable commitment and
sincerity, evident in its prompt policy responses and financial interventions
in the education sector. However, ASUU has not reciprocated this gesture and
appears determined to proceed with the planned strike despite the pending offer
and ongoing engagement.
The Ministers reaffirmed that the
administration of President Tinubu remains unwavering in its commitment to the
welfare of Nigerian lecturers and the stability of the university system. They
noted that the ongoing reforms in the education sector are anchored on
fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to ensure sustainable
academic excellence.
While reaffirming the
administration's respect for university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that
certain aspects of ASUU's demands—particularly those relating to internal
governance, appointments, and promotions—are statutory responsibilities of university
governing councils. They urged the union to allow these matters to be handled
appropriately at the institutional level in line with existing regulations.
They also reminded the union that
the principle of "No Work, No Pay" remains an extant provision of
Nigerian labour law, and the Federal Government will invoke it should ASUU
proceed with the strike.
"While government remains
committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to
protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,"
the statement warned.
The Ministers further assured
Nigerians that the Federal Government remains open to constructive engagement
with ASUU and other stakeholders in the education sector. They noted that the
administration's consistent interventions demonstrate a clear commitment to
revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and ensuring uninterrupted
academic calendars.
"The government has shown
sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are
confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be
addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain
in school," the statement added.
"The future of our children
and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes. The
Federal Government remains open to discussion and is ready to work with ASUU to
consolidate the gains already achieved in staff welfare, infrastructure, and
institutional reforms," the Ministers concluded.
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public
Relations,
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
12th October, 2025
