The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its planned strike action, urging the union to embrace dialogue in the collective interest of Nigerian students and the stability of the university system.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, said the government has made a comprehensive offer addressing ASUU’s major demands, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.
According to the statement, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved an enhanced Teaching Allowance to reflect the value of academic work and motivate lecturers across public universities. The ministers noted that most issues raised by ASUU have been addressed, except those under the purview of individual university governing councils, which are currently 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.
The ministers maintained that the government has demonstrated sincerity and commitment through timely policy responses and financial interventions in the education sector. However, they expressed concern that ASUU has not reciprocated these gestures and appears determined to proceed with the planned industrial action despite ongoing negotiations.
They reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system, noting that ongoing education reforms are built on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
While restating government’s respect for university autonomy, the ministers clarified that some of ASUU’s demands—especially those concerning internal governance, appointments, and promotions—fall within the jurisdiction of university governing councils and should be handled at the institutional level.
They also warned that the principle of “No Work, No Pay” remains in force and will be applied if ASUU goes ahead 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 added.
The ministers assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue engaging with ASUU and other stakeholders to sustain recent gains in the education sector. They urged the union to prioritize the future of students and the stability of universities over disputes.
“The government has shown sincerity through engagements and policy actions. With continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed without shutting down campuses. Our students must remain in school,” they stated.
