The highly anticipated meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), initially scheduled for Monday, has been postponed to Wednesday, August 28. ASUU President, Emmanuel Osodeke, confirmed the postponement to Channels Television, following the Minister of Education’s announcement on Friday. Although the reason for the delay was not disclosed, the meeting’s rescheduling may be seen as a strategic move to allow for more thorough preparations and negotiations.
The meeting is crucial, as it comes on the heels of ASUU’s strike notice issued to the federal government last Tuesday. The union’s National Executive Committee meeting, held on August 19 at the University of Ibadan, culminated in a resolution to embark on industrial action if their demands are not met. ASUU’s grievances include the urgent need for an emergency revitalisation fund for public universities, payment of outstanding earned academic allowances, and the release of withheld salaries, promotion arrears, and third-party deductions from members.
The postponement of the meeting may provide an opportunity for both parties to engage in further consultations and negotiations, potentially leading to a more constructive and fruitful discussion on Wednesday. As the academic community eagerly awaits the outcome, it is hoped that the meeting will yield positive results, addressing the pressing concerns of ASUU and ensuring the smooth operation of public universities in Nigeria.
