The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has formally notified the Federal Government of its intention to initiate a nationwide strike, giving the government a 21-day notice. This announcement was made following the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the University of Ibadan.
ASUU clarified that this notice is not an ultimatum but a legal requirement under labor laws, ensuring that all actions are in accordance with the law. The notice is expected to be sent to the Federal Ministries of Labour and Education.
ASUU’s decision comes in response to the government’s failure to implement several longstanding agreements. The national president of ASUU, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, emphasized that despite previous meetings and assurances, critical agreements, including those related to the 2009 renegotiated agreements and academic allowances, remain unfulfilled.
Professor Osodeke highlighted that these issues have persisted for over six years, with the government yet to take meaningful action. One major concern is the revitalization fund, where it was agreed that N200 billion would be allocated annually for five years to upgrade university infrastructure. However, only one payment has been made since 2013.
ASUU has also raised concerns about the proliferation of universities without corresponding funding, which exacerbates the challenges faced by the existing institutions. The union has indicated that if the government fails to address these issues within the 21-day notice period, it will proceed with the strike, impacting universities nationwide.
