The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to ensure a lasting resolution of all outstanding issues affecting Nigeria’s university system.
In a joint statement issued by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, the government reaffirmed its readiness to maintain dialogue with the union, emphasising that the administration has demonstrated sincerity, patience, and goodwill in addressing ASUU’s concerns.
According to the ministers, almost all the issues raised by the union have been substantially addressed. These include the introduction of enhanced teaching allowances and notable improvements in the conditions of service for academic staff.
They said the few remaining matters now fall under the jurisdiction of the newly reconstituted governing councils of individual universities.
The Ministers, however, expressed concern that despite the government’s readiness to meet deadlines and sustained dialogue, ASUU has chosen to embark on industrial action rather than return to the negotiation table.
The ministers described the union’s decision as “unfair to students and the public,” given the government’s demonstrable commitment to resolving the issues.
“While the government continues to demonstrate goodwill and flexibility, it will not abdicate its responsibility to uphold fairness and accountability in the use of public resources,” the statement said.
The statement further appeals to ASUU to reconsider its position and return to the negotiation table in the best interest of students and Nigeria’s education system.
