The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its plan to embark on an industrial strike, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable means of resolving outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.
In a joint statement issued by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, the government disclosed that a comprehensive offer has been made to the union, and it is awaiting ASUU’s formal response.
According to the statement, the Federal Government’s proposal addresses key areas of concern, including improved working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.
The Ministers noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a robust Teaching Allowance to reflect the value of academic work and motivate lecturers in 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 emphasized that the government has demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy responses and financial interventions in the education sector. However, ASUU has not reciprocated this gesture and appears determined to proceed with the planned strike despite pending offers and ongoing discussions.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system, the Ministers explained that ongoing reforms in the education sector are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to ensure sustainable academic excellence.
They also clarified that certain aspects of ASUU’s demands—particularly those concerning internal governance, appointments, and promotions—fall within the statutory responsibilities of university governing councils, and should therefore be handled at the institutional level in line with existing regulations.
The government further reminded the union that the “No Work, No Pay” policy remains an extant provision of Nigerian labour law, warning that it would be enforced should the union proceed 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 the Federal Government remains open to constructive engagement with ASUU and other stakeholders, reiterating that ongoing interventions demonstrate a genuine commitment to revitalizing universities, improving staff welfare, and sustaining 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.
