FG urges ASUU to shelve planned strike, vows to invoke ‘no work, no pay’ policy

The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its proposed industrial strike, urging the union to embrace dialogue as the best way to resolve lingering issues in the tertiary education sector.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the government said it has presented a comprehensive offer to the union addressing key concerns such as working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.

The statement, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Education, noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a robust Teaching Allowance to reflect the value of academic work and boost lecturers’ motivation across public universities.

“Matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those under the purview of university governing councils, which are actively being handled,” the ministers stated.

“The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received.”

The ministers expressed concern that despite government’s efforts, ASUU appeared determined to proceed with its planned strike.

They emphasized that the government has demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy actions and financial interventions in the education sector.

They reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system, stressing that ongoing reforms in the sector are rooted in fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening.

While restating respect for university autonomy, the ministers clarified that some of ASUU’s demands—particularly those related to internal governance, appointments, and promotions—fall within the statutory authority of university governing councils and should be addressed at the institutional level in line with existing regulations.

The Federal Government also reminded the union that the “No Work, No Pay” policy remains an enforceable provision under Nigerian labour law and will be applied if ASUU proceeds 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 warned.

The ministers assured Nigerians that government remains open to continued engagement with ASUU and other education stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted academic activities.

“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,” they added.

They concluded by calling on ASUU to prioritize the future of students and national development over industrial action, pledging that the Tinubu administration will continue to strengthen staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms across universities.