By Mahdi Waziri Isa
The Federal Government has initiated a renewed effort to prevent a nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), promising a “lasting solution” to the long-standing disputes.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, stated on Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu has directed that every necessary step be taken to avoid further disruptions to the academic calendar. “The president’s directive is clear — we must avoid strikes and ensure that our children remain in school,” Alausa said, urging ASUU to suspend its planned industrial action.
The government’s strategy hinges on a reconstituted negotiation committee and a financial commitment. Alausa revealed that President Tinubu has approved N150 billion in the 2025 budget, to be released in three tranches, to enhance teachers’ welfare and address part of the unions’ demands. He further assured that all outstanding arrears, including the 25 percent wage award, would be fully settled by 2026.
The Minister confirmed that the government is finalizing its counter-offer to ASUU’s demands, which include the re-negotiation of the 2009 agreement, university revitalization, and payment of outstanding salary arrears. He appealed for patience, noting that “80 percent of ASUU’s demands have already been met.”
“While we may not meet every demand at once, the government is committed to providing substantial improvements and handling the process with sincerity and trust,” Alausa stated.
This intervention comes in response to a 14-day ultimatum issued by ASUU following its National Executive Council meeting on September 28. The government’s newly inaugurated Expanded Negotiation Committee has already begun engaging with union leaders in a bid to reach a sustainable agreement.