The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its planned industrial strike, stressing that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable approach to resolving all lingering issues in the tertiary education sector.
In a joint statement released by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the Federal Government confirmed that it has presented a comprehensive offer to ASUU and is still awaiting the union’s official response.
According to the Ministers, the proposal covers the union’s major concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare. They disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a robust Teaching Allowance aimed at reflecting the value of academic work and motivating 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.
The Ministers explained that the Federal Government has shown demonstrable commitment and sincerity through prompt policy actions and financial interventions in the education sector. However, they expressed concern that ASUU has not reciprocated this goodwill and appears determined to go ahead with the proposed strike despite the pending offer and ongoing engagements.
They reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s administration is unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of Nigeria’s university system. The Ministers noted that the government’s ongoing reforms in the education sector are based on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to promote sustainable academic excellence.
While acknowledging the importance of university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that some of ASUU’s demands, particularly those involving internal governance, appointments, and promotions, fall under the statutory responsibilities of university governing councils. They urged ASUU to allow these issues to be resolved at the institutional level in line with existing laws and regulations.
They further reminded the union of the legal principle of “No Work, No Pay,” which remains an active provision under Nigerian labour law. They stated that the government will apply this policy if ASUU proceeds with its planned industrial action.
“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 also reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government is open to continued dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders in the education sector. They emphasised that the administration’s consistent policy interventions demonstrate its commitment to revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and maintaining uninterrupted academic calendars.
“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 future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes. The Federal Government remains open to discussion and is ready to work with ASUU to consolidate the gains already achieved in staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms,” the Ministers concluded.