The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its planned industrial action, urging the union to prioritise the interests of students and ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, the government reaffirmed its commitment to addressing ASUU’s demands through constructive dialogue rather than strike actions that disrupt academic progress.
According to the statement, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the government has made a “comprehensive offer” addressing the union’s major concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.
The Ministers revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a robust Teaching Allowance to reflect the value of academic work and boost motivation among lecturers across public universities.
“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are actively 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.
They noted that the Tinubu administration has demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy responses and financial interventions in education, but expressed disappointment that ASUU appears determined to proceed with the planned strike despite pending negotiations.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening, the Ministers stressed that while the administration respects university autonomy, certain aspects of ASUU’s demands—such as internal governance, appointments, and promotions—fall under the purview of governing councils and must be handled accordingly.
The statement also warned that the “No Work, No Pay” rule remains a standing provision of Nigerian labour law and will be enforced if ASUU embarks on 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,” it warned.
The Ministers assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains open to constructive dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders to ensure lasting stability in the university system.
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“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain in school,” the statement added.
The Minister urged ASUU to place national interest and the future of Nigerian students above industrial disputes, stressing that the government remains ready to consolidate gains already achieved in staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms.
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