Honour our agreement or face nationwide strike – ASUU issues fresh warning

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has once again sounded the alarm, warning the Federal Government to fulfil the terms of the 2009 FG/ASUU agreement or risk a nationwide strike.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, emphasized the union’s frustration over the government’s continued failure to meet its commitments.

He highlighted the deteriorating state of Nigerian universities, pointing to underfunding, poor infrastructure, and worsening staff welfare as major concerns.

Dr. Piwuna stressed that ASUU has shown great patience over the years but can no longer overlook the government’s neglect. He called on the authorities to take immediate action to prevent another round of industrial action that could cripple academic activities across the country.

He listed withheld salaries from the 2022 strike and unpaid entitlements linked to the contentious Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

Mr Piwuna also criticised the delayed release of revitalisation funds and earned academic allowances due to government inaction.

Despite promises to inject ₦150 billion into universities and adjust irregular allowances by 2026, he said these commitments remain unfulfilled.

He also highlighted the marginalisation of ASUU members at state institutions such as the Kogi State University and the Lagos State University.

He added that victimisation, salary denial, and job insecurity persist in those universities, undermining staff morale.

On university autonomy, he said political interference compromised the selection of leaders, citing Nnamdi Azikiwe and Abuja universities as examples.

Mr Piwuna warned that universities were becoming battlegrounds for political and economic interests, which he described as unacceptable.

He called for a national rebirth through education, saying it was vital for Nigeria’s transformation and prosperity.

He proposed a national education summit focusing on funding, autonomy, and academic welfare to address the challenges facing university education in Nigeria.

“Education empowers citizens, drives innovation, and instils values. Without it, development is impossible,” Mr Piwuna said.

He reaffirmed ASUU’s commitment to reforming Nigerian universities and urged patriotic Nigerians and global allies to support their struggle.

He stated, “Our universities should be centres for solutions to national challenges. We are open to dialogue but will not tolerate further erosion of our rights.’’

(NAN)