ASUU President: Strike Not Imminent if Federal Government Honors Agreements

In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) clarified that a strike could be averted if the Federal Government implements agreements within the next two weeks.

Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, ASUU’s National President, emphasized that despite ongoing negotiations, none of the agreements reached with the government have been implemented. He highlighted key unresolved issues, including the non-implementation of the 2009 re-negotiated agreements, unpaid academic allowances spanning over six years, and inadequate funding for university revitalization.

Regarding the revitalization fund, Osodeke underscored the urgent need to implement the NEEDs Assessment Report, aimed at raising N200 billion annually for five years to upgrade universities to international standards. He expressed concern over the proliferation of universities without corresponding funding, emphasizing the strain on resources and quality.

Furthermore, Osodeke noted that despite Federal Executive Council approval in January to exit the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) for university salary payments, ASUU members continue to be paid via IPPIS contrary to the directive.

The ASUU president stated that a follow-up meeting in two weeks would assess the government’s progress, which would determine ASUU’s next steps should the agreements remain unimplemented. The looming possibility of a strike hinges on these critical issues.

The Ministry of Education recently initiated discussions with ASUU to address these longstanding grievances and prevent disruptions in university operations.

Source: Daily Trust